2025 NFL Week 2: Standout Performers and Struggles
Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season saw some impressive performances and some harsh realities for players. This article focuses on the contrasting experiences of Luke Kraft of the Green Bay Packers and Josh Conerly Jr. of the Washington Commanders.
Winner: Luke Kraft, Tight End, Green Bay Packers
Luke Kraft, the Packers' 2023 third-round draft pick, had a breakout game in Week 2. He posted a career-high 124 receiving yards, exceeding his receiving totals from his first two seasons combined. Kraft's increased role is expected to continue, especially with Jayden Reed battling injuries.
Kraft excelled at exploiting seams in the defense, highlighted by a 57-yard reception that led to the game's opening touchdown. He also secured Green Bay's final touchdown in the fourth quarter. His 124 yards were a game-high and the most by a Packers tight end since 2015.
Loser: OT Josh Conerly Jr., Washington Commanders
Rookie offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. endured a difficult game against the Green Bay Packers. The 29th overall pick faced relentless pressure from Packers' pass-rushers Micah Parsons and Rashan Gary.
Conerly, a former left tackle in college, is still adjusting to playing on the right side. The Commanders attempted to provide assistance with tight ends and running backs, but the efforts proved ineffective. Parsons and Gary consistently beat Conerly, creating pressure on quarterback Jayden Daniels. The Commanders' reliance on quick passes helped mitigate the damage, but the situation could have been far worse.
