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15 NFL Week 1 Predictions: Upsets, Sleepers & Stat Lines

ESPN NFL •
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The 2026 NFL season is underway, with Week 1 featuring 15 predictions from ESPN experts. Betting analyst Pamela Maldonado predicts two underdogs to win outright: the New York Jets at Tennessee Titans and the Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs. Analytics writer Seth Walder projects three stat lines, including Aidan Hutchinson recording 2.0 sacks and Adonai Mitchell catching a touchdown pass.

Fantasy football writer Eric Moody identifies three sleepers for fantasy managers. Analyst Matt Bowen suggests three players finding the end zone. Finally, analyst Ben Solak outlines four wild-card predictions.

Key matchups include the Jets' pass rush targeting the Titans' offensive line, while the Broncos aim to pressure Patrick Mahomes returning from knee surgery. Fantasy questions surround Malik Willis and Jake Ferguson's touchdown potential.