Week 2 NFL outlook: quarterback injuries, coaching debuts and fantasy tips
Analysts discuss quarterback situations for the Vikings, Seahawks and Falcons, assess concerns for the Rams and Chargers, and highlight notable coaching and rookie performances from Week 1.
As the 2026 NFL season moves into its second week, insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano provided updates on several teams dealing with quarterback injuries and early-season challenges. The Minnesota Vikings are expected to start Kyler Murray if he clears concussion protocol, with veteran Carson Wentz as the fallback. Seattle will likely rely on Drew Lock while Sam Darnold remains sidelined, and Atlanta’s Tua Tagovailoa faces an uncertain status after an oblique strain, leaving Cooper Rush as a possible starter.
"Murray took a nasty hit, and teams tend to be overly cautious when a player has assumed the fencing position, for good reason," Fowler said.
The Los Angeles Rams, after a seven-point loss and the absence of pass rusher Myles Garrett, are not panicking but are reviewing defensive and offensive issues exposed in their opening game. The Chargers, meanwhile, hope wide receiver Ladd McConkey returns from a rib injury to stabilize their offense ahead of a matchup with the Raiders.
"The Chargers need to beat the Raiders this week and look good doing it or we're going to wonder if it was all hype," Graziano noted.
Coaching debuts that stood out included Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur, whose offense performed well in Week 1, and Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who has helped streamline Josh Allen’s play. Among rookies, Jets edge rusher David Bailey impressed with a sack and multiple pressures, while Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter recorded a sack and an interception return for a touchdown.
Fantasy advice highlighted running back David Montgomery of the Texans as a potential trade candidate despite a strong debut, and Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker as a valuable, though injury-prone, option.
Additional notes covered the ongoing legal case involving running back Josh Jacobs, the 49ers’ handling of rookie De'Zhaun Stribling’s injury, and the Jaguars’ receiver Parker Washington’s breakout performance.