NFL Reveals Week 1 Players of the Week

The NFL released its official Player of the Week awards, and they include an established superstar and a resurgent young player. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport shared the winners early Wednesday morning:

Week 1 Players of the Week

AFC

Offense: QB Patrick Mahomes, KC
Defense: S Minkah Fitzpatrick, PIT
ST: K Cade York, CLE

NFC
Offense: RB Saquon Barkley, NYG
Defense: LB Uchenna Nwosu, SEA
ST: CB Zech McPhearson, PHI

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 14, 2022

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gets the offensive honors for the AFC following a massive 360-yard, five-touchdown effort in a 44-21 dismantling of the Arizona Cardinals. On the defensive side, Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick gets the nod thanks in large part to the interception he returned for a touchdown in the team's surprising 23-20 upset of the Cincinnati Bengals. He also led his team in tackles.

Photo Credit: © Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

For the NFC, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley wins for his league-leading 164 rushing yards on only 18 carries in the Giants' 21-20 win over the Tennessee Titans. He added another 30 yards through the air on six receptions. He's a welcome sight on the list after two years of injury-riddled play. For the defense, Seattle Seahawks linebacker Uchenna Nwosu wins for his efforts in his team's 17-16 upset of returning quarterback Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos. Nwosu contributed a sack and an absolutely crucial goal-line forced fumble that saved a touchdown.

On special teams, Cleveland Browns kicker Cade York gets the award in the AFC for his amazing 58-yard game-winning field goal over the Carolina Panthers. In the NFC, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Zech McPhearson earns recognition for a pair of tackles on punt returns and an onside kick recovery.

Photo Credit: © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK