QB Contracts and New Coaches: NFL Week 1 Storylines

The NFL season kicked off with prime-time games in Seattle and Melbourne, then continued with 13 games on Sunday and a Monday night finale in Kansas City. The league is the most-watched in the nation, averaging 18.7 million viewers per game, a 10% increase over the previous year. Quarterbacks and their contracts are a major focus, with long-time coach Jerry Jones hoping for a successful year with his Cowboys.

Two key quarterbacks make their debuts this season: Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. Both have won three league MVP awards between them but have never reached a Super Bowl. Allen is entering his fourth season with the Bills under new coach Joe Brady, while Jackson is in the fourth year of a five-year, $260 million contract with the Ravens, coached by Jesse Minter. Jackson's contract situation is becoming increasingly important as he enters the fourth year.

Both quarterbacks have tough road games early in the season: Allen in Houston and Jackson in Indianapolis. A positive for both teams is the arrival of new coaches. For the Bills, Brady replaces Doug Pederson, and for the Ravens, Minter takes over from John Harbaugh.

The Dallas Cowboys, owned by Jerry Jones, aim to capitalize on their team's massive value and strong roster. They begin with a Sunday night game against the Giants, and have a rebuilt defense featuring rookie safety Caleb Downs. Jones' Cowboys have also created significant cap space for potential trades.

The 2024 quarterback class is strong, with six first-round picks selected. However, adjustments for veterans in new roles are crucial. Kyler Murray, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins have signed one-year deals with the Vikings, Falcons, and Raiders, respectively. Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson enters his final season as a potential trade target.