NFL Week 2 Predictions: Expert Upset Picks and Player Stat Projections

NFL Week 2 predictions include the Jacksonville Jaguars and Cincinnati Bengals as outright underdog winners following the Bills' 41-31 victory over the Lions.

Week 2 of the 2026 NFL season opened at Highmark Stadium with the Buffalo Bills defeating the Detroit Lions 41-31. Looking ahead to the remaining 15 games, ESPN betting analyst Pamela Maldonado predicts the Jacksonville Jaguars (+2.5) will upset the Denver Broncos after Denver managed only 176 yards in their opener. Additionally, the Cincinnati Bengals (+2.5) are projected to defeat the Houston Texans, provided Joe Burrow’s protection holds after allowing only one sack against Tampa Bay.

Analytics writer Seth Walder projected specific stat lines for key players, including New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson totaling 63 rushing yards on 16 carries and 42 receiving yards with a touchdown. Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington is projected to record seven receptions for 77 yards and a score against the 49ers. In the secondary, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Riq Woolen is expected to allow just one seven-yard reception on four targets while recording an interception against the Titans.

Fantasy sleepers for the week include Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love, who threw for 387 yards in Week 1, and Dolphins rookie Caleb Douglas, who led all rookies with 94 receiving yards in his debut. New England receiver Mack Hollins is also expected to see increased volume with A.J. Brown placed on injured reserve.

Touchdown predictions from Matt Bowen include Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, who scored three times in Week 1, and Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens. Ben Solak further predicts that Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty will lead the league in scrimmage yards and that the New York Jets will record their first interception in 623 days during their matchup against the Packers.