The 2024 NFL season kicked off in spectacular fashion, with standout performances across the AFC and NFC. Six players, representing the league’s best in offense, defense, and special teams, were recognised for their efforts in Week 1.
Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon, Buffalo Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau, and Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell were named the AFC Players of the Week, while Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, Chicago Bears defensive back Tyrique Stevenson, and San Francisco 49ers kicker Jake Moody earned the honours in the NFC.
Offensive player of the week
AFC: Joe Mixon, Houston Texans
In his highly anticipated Houston Texans debut, Joe Mixon delivered an electric performance, leading the NFL in Week 1 with 178 scrimmage yards (159 rushing, 19 receiving) and a rushing touchdown. Mixon’s contributions were pivotal in the Texans’ thrilling 29-27 win over the Indianapolis Colts, immediately solidifying his role as the focal point of the offense.
After spending seven years with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he earned three previous Offensive Player of the Week awards, Mixon is off to a strong start in Houston. His ability to dominate both on the ground and through the air makes him one of the most versatile backs in the league. This latest recognition puts him alongside former Texans greats like Arian Foster and Steve Slaton.
NFC: Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
Saquon Barkley wasted no time making an impact in his Philadelphia Eagles debut, scoring three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) and racking up 132 scrimmage yards in the Eagles’ 34-29 victory over the Green Bay Packers. In a historic game held in São Paulo, Brazil, Barkley’s performance propelled the Eagles to an exciting international win.
This is Barkley’s fourth career Offensive Player of the Week award, with three previous honours earned during his time with the New York Giants. Now, as a key piece of the Eagles’ offense, Barkley has quickly shown why he remains one of the most dangerous players in the NFL.
Defensive player of the week
AFC: Greg Rousseau, Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau had a dominant outing in Week 1, recording six tackles and three sacks, including a game-changing forced fumble in the Bills’ 34-28 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Rousseau’s ability to disrupt the backfield was critical in Buffalo’s comeback victory, with one of his sacks setting up the go-ahead score.
In just his third season, Rousseau continues to prove he is one of the NFL’s rising stars on defense. This is his second Defensive Player of the Week award, further solidifying his place among elite pass rushers in the league. Rousseau’s blend of size and speed makes him a cornerstone of the Bills’ defense for years to come.
NFC: Tyrique Stevenson, Chicago Bears
Second-year cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was the defensive hero for the Chicago Bears in their 24-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Stevenson’s 43-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter sealed the comeback win for the Bears and was the longest defensive touchdown of Week 1. In addition to the pick-six, Stevenson recorded four tackles in an all-around stellar performance.
This marks Stevenson’s second career Defensive Player of the Week award after an impressive rookie campaign. With his playmaking ability and knack for game-changing moments, Stevenson is quickly becoming one of the premier defensive backs in the NFC.
Special teams player of the week
AFC: Chris Boswell, Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers kicker Chris Boswell accounted for all of Pittsburgh’s points in their 18-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, converting six field goals, including three from 50-plus yards. Boswell’s clutch kicking kept the Steelers in control throughout the game, and his precision from long range tied an NFL record for a season opener.
Boswell, now in his ninth NFL season, has long been one of the league’s most reliable kickers. This is his third Special Teams Player of the Week award, further cementing his reputation as a crucial part of Pittsburgh’s success.
NFC: Jake Moody, San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers rookie kicker Jake Moody made his NFL debut in grand fashion, scoring 20 points in the 49ers’ 32-19 victory over the New York Jets. Moody was perfect on all six of his field goal attempts, including two from beyond 50 yards. His performance not only led the league in scoring for Week 1 but also set the tone for the 49ers’ dominant win.
As a former Michigan Wolverine standout, Moody’s transition to the pros has been seamless. His poise and accuracy in his first game make him the fourth San Francisco kicker in the last 15 years to win this award. Moody’s early success suggests that he could be a key special teams’ contributor for the 49ers going forward.
As the 2024 NFL season gets underway, these standout performances set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable year. The bar has been set high, and the race for future Player of the Week honours is officially on.