Alec Pierce, 5 NFL Players That Deserve More Snaps in Week 2

Perhaps the greatest challenge of coaching in the NFL is determining how to distribute snaps.

Between last season, the offseason and training camp, each coaching staff has formed a strong opinion about their players. But there's nothing more problematic—in a good way, somtimes—than the actual games.

In short: Week 1 shifted some opinions.

While one game is undoubtedly a small sample, it could be unwise to ignore. The positive things that happened on the opening week of the 2024 NFL season must be tested.

Each player highlighted had a positive performance in a limited role to kick off the 2024 campaign.

The immediate challenge is that the Minnesota Vikings take on the San Francisco 49ers in Week 2. On paper, the matchup will likely not be especially positive for Minnesota.

From a long-term perspective, however, Ty Chandler should be a larger part of the Vikings' plans.

Yes, they have Aaron Jones. The former rival running back had a solid debut with the franchise, rushing for 94 yards and a touchdown while catching two passes for 15 yards. Jones will, at least for 2024, be Minnesota's primary runner when healthy.

Jones has only played a full season twice in seven years, though. It seems wise for the Vikings to place a higher priority on a rotation; Chandler handled just five carries before garbage time in Week 1.

Even if the Niners limit his effectiveness this weekend, Chandler merits a more impactful role.

If his only value is catching long passes, well, there are worse limitations for a wideout to have.

Last weekend, Alec Pierce brought in a 60-yard touchdown and a 57-yard reception that set up another score. He'd seemingly dropped on the depth chart as the Indianapolis Colts used a second-round pick on AD Mitchell, but this performance likely made the coaching staff think again.

Pierce, who caught 32 passes in 2023, has earned an opportunity to show off his big-play ability.

Look, is it sustainable? Probably not. While second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson has truly absurd arm strength, ripping a 50/50 ball in Pierce's general direction is begging for trouble over time.

Nevertheless, until it goes wrong, it'll probably keep happening thanks to Pierce's blend of size and speed.

If you're looking for an adventurous route tree, you won't find it within Devaughn Vele's debut for the Denver Broncos.

Screens, hitches, outs—that was Week 1 for Vele.

Unfortunately for Vele, a rib injury will sideline him in Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. His absence should open a greater opportunity for Marvin Mims Jr., who logged only 12 snaps last weekend.

Mims can handle that quick-hitting route tree but also provides a much-needed explosive threat. He averaged a team-high 17.1 yards per catch as a rookie last season.

Denver coach Sean Payton really didn't ask rookie QB Bo Nix to push the ball downfield in Week 1. The reality is Mims' presence alone will not demand respect from defenses, too. For opponents to truly take Nix seriously as a passer, however, the Broncos must find those moments to at least intend on taking a deep shot. Mims is the best option for that.

Formerly an inside linebacker, Jamin Davis has shifted down to an edge-rushing spot in 2024.

So far, so good.

Davis only tallied 13 snaps in Week 1 but made a noticeable impression in limited action. He contributed on three tackles, most notably ripping past All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs to notch a stop in the backfield.

Also in his favor, the Washington Commanders don't exactly have a long-term answer at the position. After trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat around the 2023 deadline, they signed Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler Jr. and Clelin Ferrell in free agency this offseason.

Washington needs to determine if Davis, who's in the final year of his contract, is worth keeping for the future.

And, again: So far, so good. But he needs more snaps.

Edgerrin Cooper registered four tackles in his first game with the Green Bay Packers, and he's about to play a whole lot more.

You don't need to take my word for it.

"He certainly flashed and made some plays," head coach Matt LaFleur said about Cooper's debut, per Wes Hodkiewicz of the team's official site. "I would anticipate him getting more time moving forward."

Cooper, a second-round pick from Texas A&M, joined a position of considerable need in Green Bay. He basically only needs to leap Isaiah McDuffie on the depth chart to become a fixture of the Pack's defense.

Given that outlook, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Cooper in a first-string spot by the end of September.