Brian Rothmuller/Getty Images
Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season is in the books, and standout performances have earned several players well-deserved recognition.
Here are the players who have been named the AFC and NFC Players of the Week:
AFC Players of the Week:
Offensive Player of the Week – Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa delivered a sensational performance in his team’s nail-biting 36-34 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Tagovailoa threw for a staggering 466 yards, marking the fourth-highest passing yards total in NFL history for a Week 1 game. He completed 28 of 45 attempts, connected for three touchdowns, and posted an impressive 110.0 passer rating.
Defensive Player of the Week – Jordan Whitehead (New York Jets)
In a dramatic overtime clash against the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets safety Jordan Whitehead stood out.
Whitehead, who had only seven interceptions in his previous five seasons, notched an incredible three interceptions in this season opener against Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
Special Teams Player of the Week – Xavier Gipson (New York Jets)
Undrafted rookie Xavier Gipson made a memorable impact on special teams for the New York Jets.
Gipson had four returns in the Monday night matchup, including two kickoffs and two punts. However, it was his electrifying 65-yard punt return for a touchdown in overtime that sealed the Jets’ 22-16 victory over the Buffalo Bills. Gipson became only the third NFL player to accomplish this feat in overtime and joined an exclusive club by scoring on a punt return in his debut game.
NFC Players of the Week:
Offensive Player of the Week – Brandon Aiyuk (San Francisco 49ers)
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk showcased his abilities in a dominant 30-7 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Aiyuk recorded a career-high 129 yards receiving on eight catches and scored two touchdowns, both of which came in the first half, propelling the 49ers to a commanding 20-0 lead.
Defensive Player of the Week – Jessie Bates (Atlanta Falcons)
In his debut for the Atlanta Falcons, safety Jessie Bates delivered an unforgettable performance in the team’s 24-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Bates snagged a pair of interceptions off Panthers 1st overall pick, rookie quarterback Bryce Young, and also forced a crucial fumble. He finished with impressive 10 tackles as well.
Special Teams Player of the Week – Jake Elliott (Philadelphia Eagles)
Despite the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense facing challenges, kicker Jake Elliott shone brightly in their 25-20 win over the New England Patriots.
Elliott’s precision was on full display as he successfully converted all four of his field goal attempts. His accurate kicking contributed significantly to the Eagles, accounting for 13 points in total.