NFL Preseason Highlights: Rookies Shine and Challenges Loom
As the 2025 NFL preseason kicks off, several high-profile rookie quarterbacks have made headlines with noteworthy performances. This weekend marked an important milestone for these players as they transitioned into the professional ranks, showcasing their skills on a national stage.
Rookie Quarterbacks Take Center Stage
Despite the quarterback class of 2025 facing skepticism, Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants and Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns emerged as standout performers in their preseason debuts. Tyler Sullivan from CBS Sports ranked both players highly after observing their impressive initial outings.
Dart, who took the field in relief of veteran Russell Wilson, demonstrated his capabilities by leading three scoring drives on four possessions. Sullivan noted, “Dart looked comfortable in the pocket, made tight-window throws, and when the pressure started to get home, he showed off his mobility with 24 yards on the ground.”
Shedeur Sanders, initially buried on the depth chart, surprised many with his poise and vision. Cody Benjamin remarked, “Yes, it’s preseason. Yes, it’s early. But Sanders showed precisely the kind of composure and downfield vision you’d expect from an NFL passer. His place on the 2025 roster is now secure.”
Other rookies, including Cameron Ward and J.J. McCarthy, also debuted, capturing attention, albeit with shorter outings. Their performances highlighted the potential contributing core of young talents in the league.
Rookie QB Performances: Quick Stats
- Jaxson Dart (NYG): 12 of 19, 154 yards, 1 TD, 24 rushing yards
- Shedeur Sanders (CLE): 14 of 23, 138 yards, 2 TDs, 19 rushing yards
- Jalen Milroe (SEA): 6 of 10, 61 yards, 38 rushing yards
- Cameron Ward (TEN): 5 of 8, 67 yards
- J.J. McCarthy (MIN): 4 of 7, 30 yards, 8 rushing yards
In addition to the rookie quarterbacks, Travis Hunter made waves as a two-way player for the Jaguars, demonstrating versatility and capability on both sides of the ball.
Challenges for Other Rookie Quarterbacks
Not all rookie QBs fared as well. Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints struggled significantly in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. His game included a pick-six and a touchdown throw despite an overall lackluster performance. Analysts like Bryan DeArdo acknowledged the struggles of the Saints’ quarterback options, indicating that Shough might be the primary candidate as they quickly approach the regular season.
Shough’s numbers were as follows:
- Tyler Shough: 15 of 22, 165 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 2 sacks
- Spencer Rattler: 7 of 11, 53 yards, 22 rushing yards, 1 fumble
- Jake Haener: 5 of 8, 41 yards, 1 INT, 7 rushing yards
DeArdo remarked on the Saints’ quarterback situation, stating, “Shough played OK against backups who weren’t doing much from a schematic standpoint. With the regular season less than a month away, Shough may be the best option for a Saints quarterback situation that looks rather bleak.”
Notable Highlights from Preseason
This first weekend of preseason football was filled with exciting moments beyond individual performances:
- Jaguars kicker Cam Little reportedly attempted and may have made the first 70-yard field goal in NFL history.
- Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes displayed efficiency in his season debut.
- Titans receiver Calvin Ridley showed a promising connection with Cameron Ward.
The excitement surrounding these games sets the stage for an unpredictable and competitive season.
Conclusion: Implications for the Season Ahead
The promising performances of rookie quarterbacks like Dart and Sanders provide optimism for their respective franchises as they transition into the regular season. However, the struggles of others, particularly Shough, highlight the unpredictability and pressure inherent in NFL quarterback competitions.
As teams finalize their rosters and strategies leading into the season, these early performances will influence coaching decisions and expectations for both fans and players. The preseason serves not only as a platform for emerging talent but also as a crucial evaluation period for teams aiming to improve on last season’s outcomes. With the regular season on the horizon, all eyes will be on how these rookies continue to develop and contribute to their teams.
