The NFL’s opening week always provides surprises. Coaches test rotations, players flash unexpected potential, and fans start debating who should see the field more. Snap counts reveal not only how teams value their players but also where improvements can be made.
Heading into Week 2, several players proved they can make an impact but weren’t given enough opportunity. From explosive rookies to overlooked veterans, here are the names who deserve a bigger role.
Treylon Burks: Titans’ Hidden Weapon
The Tennessee Titans drafted Treylon Burks as a playmaker, and Week 1 showed why. Despite limited action—just 37% of offensive snaps—he produced three receptions for 55 yards, commanding an impressive 33.7% of the team’s air yards.
Burks also ranked among the league’s best in separation (4.9 yards per route), second only to Deebo Samuel. When he was on the field, he got open and made plays. The Titans’ offense desperately needs more downfield threats, making Burks a prime candidate for expanded snaps.
Jordan Davis: Eagles’ Run-Stuffing Anchor
The Philadelphia Eagles knew Jordan Davis would be a project, but his Week 1 impact was undeniable. In just 22 defensive snaps, he helped hold Detroit to 3.1 yards per carry when on the field. Without him, the Lions averaged a staggering 9.9 yards per carry.
At 6’6” and 336 pounds, Davis is already a difference-maker against the run. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon hinted at giving him more work in multiple fronts, which could be crucial as the Eagles prepare for Dalvin Cook and the Vikings.
O.J. Howard: A Big Target in Houston
In his Houston Texans debut, O.J. Howard scored two touchdowns despite playing only 16.6% of snaps. Recently released by the Bills, Howard wasted no time earning quarterback Davis Mills’ trust.
The Texans lack reliable pass-catching options beyond Brandin Cooks, making Howard a perfect red-zone weapon. With more time to learn the playbook, his role should naturally expand in Week 2 and beyond.
Dameon Pierce: The Future of Houston’s Backfield
Fantasy football fans were stunned to see Rex Burkhead dominate snaps over rookie Dameon Pierce in Week 1. Burkhead played 71% of the snaps, while Pierce saw just 29%.
While Pierce’s production was modest (33 yards on 11 carries), he flashed explosiveness in the preseason. Head coach Lovie Smith admitted Pierce should have been used more, suggesting an increased workload is coming. For a rebuilding Texans team, investing in their rookie back makes too much sense.
Tony Pollard: Cowboys’ Spark Plug
The Dallas Cowboys need offense badly, especially with Dak Prescott sidelined. Tony Pollard played 38 snaps (55%), but he was criminally underutilized—just six carries and two targets.
Pollard averaged 5.5 yards per carry last season, outpacing Ezekiel Elliott. While Elliott remains the workhorse, Pollard’s versatility as both a runner and receiver should make him a focal point in Week 2. Using Pollard in creative packages alongside Elliott could ease the burden on backup QB Cooper Rush.
Dominique Robinson: Chicago’s Breakout Rookie
The Chicago Bears’ fifth-round pick Dominique Robinson surprised everyone with his Week 1 performance. In only 28 snaps, he recorded 1.5 sacks and was second on the team in tackles.
His high motor and ability to disrupt plays fit perfectly with the Bears’ youth movement after trading Khalil Mack. Robinson deserves more opportunities to prove he can be a cornerstone of Chicago’s defense.
Kadarius Toney: Giants’ Mystery
Few situations were more puzzling than the New York Giants’ usage of Kadarius Toney. The second-year receiver played only seven snaps, effectively their sixth option at wideout.
Toney has dynamic ability, as shown in flashes during his rookie season. The Giants’ receiving corps lacks depth, and continuing to bench him feels like a waste. Either Toney should see more snaps in Week 2—or the Giants may explore trade options while his upside remains high.
Quick Comparison: Week 1 Snap Counts and Impact
| Player | Team | Snap % (Week 1) | Production | Why More Snaps Matter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treylon Burks | Titans | 37% | 3 rec, 55 yds, 33.7% air yards | Efficient playmaker, WR corps needs firepower |
| Jordan Davis | Eagles | 32% (22 snaps) | 2 tackles, run D: 3.1 YPC with him | Dominant vs run, critical for upcoming matchups |
| O.J. Howard | Texans | 16.6% | 2 TDs | Reliable red-zone threat, QB already trusts him |
| Dameon Pierce | Texans | 29% | 33 rush yds, 1 rec | Explosive rookie, future of Texans’ backfield |
| Tony Pollard | Cowboys | 55% | 6 carries, 8 total touches | Versatile weapon, needed with Dak Prescott out |
| Dominique Robinson | Bears | <50% (28 snaps) | 1.5 sacks, multiple tackles | Youth movement, flashes as pass rusher |
| Kadarius Toney | Giants | 7 snaps | 0 receptions, limited usage | Dynamic talent, Giants lack WR depth |
Conclusion: Week 2 Adjustments
Week 1 snap counts told us a lot about how coaches view their rosters, but adjustments are inevitable. Players like Treylon Burks, Jordan Davis, and Dameon Pierce flashed too much potential to stay limited. Veterans like O.J. Howard and Tony Pollard could change games if given expanded roles.
For teams like the Giants, underutilizing a player like Kadarius Toney raises bigger questions. Week 2 will reveal whether coaches correct these mistakes—or double down on puzzling decisions.
