When you look at the physics invoved ( pounds of upward force applied against the stem) then failure to pop up is almost always due to low pressure in the line, either generalized, or low pressure at that head due to an underground leak, or a lot of leakage around the stem.
First rule in sprinklers....everything is cheap and easy, so don't lose any sleep trying to figure things out. You should have immediately just replaced the culprit heads, and then if problem persists, start looking for other leaks, or a valve not opened all the way.