What happened: Zachariah Branch did not draw a target against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and his biggest spark — a 64-yard kickoff return — was erased by a holding penalty on Josh Woods. Atlanta now heads into Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers after leaning heavily on Cooper Rush, Bijan Robinson and the run game in the opener.
Why it matters: With Rush under center, Branch's speed is a fit for screens, motion touches and other quick throws that do not depend on deep-ball volume. Atlanta has already been building Zachariah Branch's role, and a broader package would add a needed change-up alongside Drake London, Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheaus.
By the numbers: Branch finished Week 1 with 0 targets while working fourth in the receiver rotation. Atlanta threw seven screens for 72 yards to Robinson, had none designed for Branch, and was the only NFL team that did not reach the red zone in the opener.
What to watch: Week 2 will show whether Atlanta treats Branch as a larger part of the offense against Carolina. Any rise in targets or designed touches would be a clear shift from his debut.