It’s only Week 3 in the NFL but that isn’t stopping people from creating an early buzz on NFL players.
While some talk is about players having a poor season, others are buzzing about shockingly outstanding performances.
With two weeks already in the books, there’s no lack of impressive games from teams.
These outstanding games have been led by players stepping up as genuine leaders.
So, which three NFL players are surprising fans so far in 2022?
3. Cooper Rush
One player facing pressure to perform in 2022 is backup QB Cooper Rush.
After an injury to Dak Prescott, Rush was named the starting QB for the Dallas Cowboys until his return.
However, that pivotal job comes with the pressure of winning games for owner Jerry Jones.
With the team being in the playoffs in 2021, and Dak out for some time, it’s up to Rush to keep Dallas in postseason contention.
His first start in 2022 was solid as he passed for 235 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions.
Cooper Rush in the Cowboys’ 20-17 W 🔥
19/31
235 YDS
1 TD
Game-winning drive2-0 as a starter 👀 pic.twitter.com/GfHtxx4FKu
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 18, 2022
While he was protecting the ball, the Cowboys’ defense gave him chances to win the game.
He didn’t disappoint them, as he earned an early lead against the Cincinnati Bengals.
He also put together a game-winning drive that allowed the Cowboys to kick the winning field goal.
With Rush’s record of 2-0 as a starter in Dallas, he’s surprising those who never thought he could win in the NFL.
2. Dominique Robinson
Rookie defensive end Dominique Robinson started his football career as an offensive player.
Both in high school and college, Robinson was an offensive star.
However, in 2020 Robinson became reliable playing defense over offense.
Since then, he’s been playing defensive end and isn’t looking back.
His first career start with the Chicago Bears saw him have seven tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Game 1 for 4 Bears’ draft picks:
2nd round S Jaquan Brisker: played every snap, 4 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 FR
2nd round CB Kyler Gordon: played every snap, 6 tackles, 1 TFL
5th round LT Braxton Jones: played every snap
5th round DE Dominque Robinson: 7 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 2 QB hits
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 12, 2022
With his impressive game, some were seeing a future defensive star in the rookie player.
While he didn’t start in the Bears’ Sunday night game versus the Green Bay Packers, he’s got plenty of time to show he’s a star.
Whenever the Bears decide to call his number, he’ll be ready to surprise fans and the quarterback.
But for now, he’s a solid backup for starting defensive end Robert Quinn.
1. Tua Tagovailoa
No other player is as shockingly impressive this season as Tua Tagovailoa.
While other QBs are doing well, Tagovailoa is setting the bar in 2022.
He’s done more in two weeks than he’s done in several games during his previous two years with Miami.
When down by 21 points on the road, Tagovailoa led the Dolphins to a 28-point fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens.
He ended the game posting career highs in touchdowns, passing yards, and completions.
What a day, #1 #FinsUp x @Tua pic.twitter.com/A6WHBDVljV
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) September 18, 2022
The best game of his career comes off a summer full of hype from his new wide receiver, Tyreek Hill.
With Hill giving him a star to pass to, it’s unlocking him as an elite QB this season.
However, some still doubt he will continue to perform like an MVP candidate this season.
But for now, Tagovailoa is surprising everyone in 2022.
