NFL.com breaks down what you need to know from Week 1 of the 2024 NFL preseason. Catch up on each game's biggest takeaways using the links below:
Grant Gordon's takeaways:
- Richardson looks healthy, poised in return. For the first time since Oct. 8, 2023, Anthony Richardson took the field at Lucas Oil Stadium for live reps against another team. There weren’t many highlights to note, but the 2023 NFL Draft’s No. 4 overall pick most importantly looked healthy and comfortable. Statistically, Richardson left plenty to be desired as he was 2-of-4 for 25 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions (though he did have one that should’ve been picked) and a 69.8 passer rating. He also scrambled once for a yard. Across two scoreless drives, Richardson played seven snaps. It was a very small sample size, but the Colts quarterback showed poise and patience; he wasn’t rushing to make hero plays, but taking whatever was given. An eye-popping touchdown throw or vintage run would’ve been glorious in front of the home crowd, but the reality was this was a promising and important step in Richardson returning to form as the future of the franchise.
- McLaughlin makes case for more touches. As a rookie in 2023, Jaleel McLaughlin made an argument for more run. During Sunday’s preseason opener, he continued to debate his cause. In an RB room in which there’s optimism Javonte Williams will return to form as the lead back and some excitement around rookie Audric Estimé, McLaughlin put on the most promising performance against the Colts. He had a big 22-yard catch and run on a hookup with rookie quarterback Bo Nix and totaled 30 yards over seven carries. There wasn’t much beyond Nix to get excited about as it related to the Broncos’ offensive starters and frontline reserves. McLaughlin showed glimpses and has shown he can pop some big plays. Following a first year with 107 touches, McLaughlin is putting his best foot forward for more in 2024.
