Unassigned
How Every Rookie QB Performed in NFL Preseason Week 1
The first week of the 2025 NFL preseason provided a showcase for new talent, especially rookie quarterbacks. Sixteen rookies made their professional debuts over the weekend, offering a wide spectrum of performances. Some demonstrated poise and skill, while others struggled to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game.
Preseason action presents unique challenges for rookies. They often face mixed defenses composed of both starters and backups while playing limited snaps. Evaluating a quarterback’s full potential in these conditions is difficult, but early observations can provide insight into their readiness for the regular season. The performances of these young quarterbacks varied greatly.
Via ESPN
Some rookies, such as Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders, impressed immediately with precise throws and effective mobility. Others, including Graham Mertz and Quinn Ewers, experienced turnovers and poor ball placement, indicating areas for growth. These debuts set the stage for ongoing evaluation throughout training camp and future preseason games.
Via NFL
Carter applied consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback during limited pass-rushing snaps, while Dart completed 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards, including a touchdown, and added 24 rushing yards. These performances may enhance confidence in the team’s front office decisions. TreyVeyon Henderson also stood out as a rookie winner.
The New England running back returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown against the Commanders. Henderson’s display of speed and vision immediately signaled his potential impact in the NFL. These standout plays highlighted the importance of rookies making a strong impression early in preseason games. On the other hand, there were notable losers from Week One.
Via PrizePicks
Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray struggled to inspire confidence, throwing a first-quarter interception on a poorly executed rollout. Additionally, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense faced difficulties against the Philadelphia Eagles' reserves, surrendering two scoring drives during early drives despite being partially protected by starters. These challenges underscored areas of concern for teams entering training camp.
Via FanSided
Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns completed 14 of 23 passes for 128 yards and two touchdowns in his debut against the Panthers. Sanders played nearly three quarters, rolling out effectively to both sides and threading passes through tight coverage. His first touchdown pass demonstrated anticipation and placement, highlighting the potential to move up the depth chart quickly.
Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans finished 5 of 8 for 67 yards against the Buccaneers. Ward settled into the game after an initial three-and-out, orchestrating an 11-play, 65-yard touchdown drive. His connection with Calvin Ridley was apparent, completing three passes for 50 yards on the drive. These flashes suggest he could become an effective starter with continued development.
Via CBS Sports
Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints completed 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Shough led a 52-yard scoring drive on his first possession, but also threw a pick-six on the next drive. He rebounded with a 54-yard touchdown pass, demonstrating arm strength and the ability to recover from mistakes. Shough’s performance reflected a mixture of rookie errors and impressive execution under pressure.
Via Fox News
The performances of other rookies, including Abdul Carter and TreyVeyon Henderson, also affected team dynamics. Carter applied pressure on the opposing quarterback during pass-rushing snaps, while Henderson’s kickoff return touchdown energized the team. These contributions illustrate the immediate impact that rookies can have, even in limited preseason action.
Dart’s decision-making under pressure stood out throughout the game. Even when facing defensive adjustments, he maintained focus and delivered accurate passes to his receivers. His mobility in the pocket allowed him to extend plays and create opportunities that might not have existed otherwise, reinforcing the team’s confidence in his abilities.
Via NFL Mocks
Via Sports Illustrated
Travis Hunter of the Jaguars also made an impact in his rookie debut, playing both offense and defense. His versatility and athleticism were immediately apparent, complementing the excitement generated by Little’s record-setting kick. Such moments illustrate how the preseason can showcase extraordinary individual talent in a compressed timeframe.
Via FantraxHQ
Following the incident, the teams decided to end the game early, with the final snap taken shortly after Norris was removed from the field. Players from both teams paused to circle midfield and offer support. By the following day, Norris had posted a positive update, reporting that he was recovering and appreciative of the support.
Norris was in concussion protocol and doing well, according to Lions head coach Dan Campbell. The Lions won the shortened game 17-10. The early conclusion of the game underscored the league’s emphasis on player safety during preseason contests.
Via NFL
Both teams prioritized health over competition, demonstrating respect and concern for their teammates’ well-being. The pause at midfield allowed players to collectively reflect on the risks of the sport and reinforced the importance of immediate medical attention in critical situations.
Via FC Bayern Munich
The Indianapolis Colts announced that Daniel Jones will start their upcoming game against the Packers. Jones came off the bench during Week One after Anthony Richardson’s injury, and now appears to be the team's choice to lead the offense. Richardson's status remains uncertain.
This opportunity may serve as his final chance to solidify a starting role. Other league developments included Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin revealing that he knew Aaron Rodgers would sign with the team before the draft, alleviating fan concerns in Pittsburgh.
Via Spectrum News
Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll had no issue with Geno Smith responding to a fan during a game against the Raiders, showing the continued intersection of personality and performance in preseason games. The incident highlighted how player reactions can draw attention without necessarily impacting team focus or game outcomes.
Via Titan Sized
The Titans’ fall underscores the challenges of maintaining consistency in a competitive league. Organizational decisions, player development, and injuries all contribute to dramatic changes in team performance over time. Ward’s debut illustrates the potential for improvement, but it also emphasizes the broader issues that must be addressed for the franchise to regain competitiveness.
Via ESPN
From the success of Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders to the challenges faced by Kyler Murray and the Bengals defense, the first week provided a comprehensive preview of the storylines to follow as the preseason continues. NFL fans now have a clearer view of which rookies are ready to contribute and which teams need to address ongoing concerns before the regular season begins.
More in Unassigned
Via ESPN
Some rookies, such as Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders, impressed immediately with precise throws and effective mobility. Others, including Graham Mertz and Quinn Ewers, experienced turnovers and poor ball placement, indicating areas for growth. These debuts set the stage for ongoing evaluation throughout training camp and future preseason games.
NFL Preseason Week One - Winners and Losers
The first week of preseason football also highlighted teams and players who either gained momentum or raised concerns. General managers, rookies, and veterans all played pivotal roles in shaping initial impressions. Giants general manager Joe Schoen emerged as one of the winners. His first-round rookies, Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart, made strong impressions.
Via NFL
Carter applied consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback during limited pass-rushing snaps, while Dart completed 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards, including a touchdown, and added 24 rushing yards. These performances may enhance confidence in the team’s front office decisions. TreyVeyon Henderson also stood out as a rookie winner.
The New England running back returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown against the Commanders. Henderson’s display of speed and vision immediately signaled his potential impact in the NFL. These standout plays highlighted the importance of rookies making a strong impression early in preseason games. On the other hand, there were notable losers from Week One.
Via PrizePicks
Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray struggled to inspire confidence, throwing a first-quarter interception on a poorly executed rollout. Additionally, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense faced difficulties against the Philadelphia Eagles' reserves, surrendering two scoring drives during early drives despite being partially protected by starters. These challenges underscored areas of concern for teams entering training camp.
Individual Rookie Quarterback Performances
The first week of preseason featured eleven different rookie quarterbacks, each offering a unique set of strengths and weaknesses. Their performances allowed coaches and analysts to identify which players adapted quickly to the speed of the NFL and which areas require improvement. Evaluating these performances provides a clearer understanding of each player’s potential for the upcoming season.
Via FanSided
Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns completed 14 of 23 passes for 128 yards and two touchdowns in his debut against the Panthers. Sanders played nearly three quarters, rolling out effectively to both sides and threading passes through tight coverage. His first touchdown pass demonstrated anticipation and placement, highlighting the potential to move up the depth chart quickly.
Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans finished 5 of 8 for 67 yards against the Buccaneers. Ward settled into the game after an initial three-and-out, orchestrating an 11-play, 65-yard touchdown drive. His connection with Calvin Ridley was apparent, completing three passes for 50 yards on the drive. These flashes suggest he could become an effective starter with continued development.
Via CBS Sports
Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints completed 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Shough led a 52-yard scoring drive on his first possession, but also threw a pick-six on the next drive. He rebounded with a 54-yard touchdown pass, demonstrating arm strength and the ability to recover from mistakes. Shough’s performance reflected a mixture of rookie errors and impressive execution under pressure.
Rookies Impacting Team Dynamics
Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants demonstrated why the team invested in him as a first-round draft pick. Completing 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards, Dart also rushed for 24 yards. His poise in the pocket and ability to avoid pressure allowed him to execute key plays. Dart’s debut highlighted his readiness and potential leadership role as a rookie quarterback.
Via Fox News
The performances of other rookies, including Abdul Carter and TreyVeyon Henderson, also affected team dynamics. Carter applied pressure on the opposing quarterback during pass-rushing snaps, while Henderson’s kickoff return touchdown energized the team. These contributions illustrate the immediate impact that rookies can have, even in limited preseason action.
Dart’s decision-making under pressure stood out throughout the game. Even when facing defensive adjustments, he maintained focus and delivered accurate passes to his receivers. His mobility in the pocket allowed him to extend plays and create opportunities that might not have existed otherwise, reinforcing the team’s confidence in his abilities.
Via NFL Mocks
Record-Setting Moments in Preseason Week One
Beyond quarterback performances, Week One featured remarkable moments that captured attention across the league. Jaguars kicker Cam Little made history by completing a 70-yard field goal during the preseason game against the Steelers. While preseason statistics do not count toward official records, the kick is the longest ever in a game at any level of football. Little’s kick demonstrates both skill and confidence under unique circumstances. The feat surpassed previous unofficial records, including a 69-yard field goal by Abilene Christian University’s Ove Johansson in 1976. Three of the five longest kicks in NFL history have occurred in preseason, highlighting the opportunities provided when coaches push limits in non-regular season games.
Via Sports Illustrated
Travis Hunter of the Jaguars also made an impact in his rookie debut, playing both offense and defense. His versatility and athleticism were immediately apparent, complementing the excitement generated by Little’s record-setting kick. Such moments illustrate how the preseason can showcase extraordinary individual talent in a compressed timeframe.
Injury Reports and Safety Concerns
Week One also underscored the importance of safety and player health. In the preseason matchup between the Lions and Falcons, Detroit safety Morice Norris suffered a severe injury on the first play of the fourth quarter. His head snapped back during a tackle attempt, causing the game to be stopped for twenty minutes while medical personnel attended to him.
Via FantraxHQ
Following the incident, the teams decided to end the game early, with the final snap taken shortly after Norris was removed from the field. Players from both teams paused to circle midfield and offer support. By the following day, Norris had posted a positive update, reporting that he was recovering and appreciative of the support.
Norris was in concussion protocol and doing well, according to Lions head coach Dan Campbell. The Lions won the shortened game 17-10. The early conclusion of the game underscored the league’s emphasis on player safety during preseason contests.
Via NFL
Both teams prioritized health over competition, demonstrating respect and concern for their teammates’ well-being. The pause at midfield allowed players to collectively reflect on the risks of the sport and reinforced the importance of immediate medical attention in critical situations.
Extra NFL Notes and Developments
Several other notable events occurred during the first week of preseason. Eagles offensive lineman Landon Dickerson suffered a right leg injury during practice and had to be carted off the field. The severity of the injury remains unclear, but losing a Pro Bowl left guard for an extended period would significantly affect Philadelphia’s offensive line.
Via FC Bayern Munich
The Indianapolis Colts announced that Daniel Jones will start their upcoming game against the Packers. Jones came off the bench during Week One after Anthony Richardson’s injury, and now appears to be the team's choice to lead the offense. Richardson's status remains uncertain.
This opportunity may serve as his final chance to solidify a starting role. Other league developments included Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin revealing that he knew Aaron Rodgers would sign with the team before the draft, alleviating fan concerns in Pittsburgh.
Via Spectrum News
Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll had no issue with Geno Smith responding to a fan during a game against the Raiders, showing the continued intersection of personality and performance in preseason games. The incident highlighted how player reactions can draw attention without necessarily impacting team focus or game outcomes.
From Success to Struggles - The Titans’ Decline
The Tennessee Titans’ current situation highlights a rapid decline over a short period. Four years ago, the team finished with the top seed in the AFC, yet they now hold the first overall pick due to poor performance. In the middle of a struggling club, rookie quarterback Cam Ward showed promise throughout the preseason this season.
Via Titan Sized
The Titans’ fall underscores the challenges of maintaining consistency in a competitive league. Organizational decisions, player development, and injuries all contribute to dramatic changes in team performance over time. Ward’s debut illustrates the potential for improvement, but it also emphasizes the broader issues that must be addressed for the franchise to regain competitiveness.
Discover the Top Rookie QBs From NFL Preseason Week 1
Week One of the 2025 NFL preseason offered excitement, notable performances, and early insights into both rookies and veterans. The debut of multiple rookie quarterbacks revealed a wide range of talent and readiness levels, while historic plays, such as Cam Little’s 70-yard field goal, added to the intrigue. Injuries and early struggles also reminded teams of the importance of preparation and resilience.
Via ESPN
From the success of Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders to the challenges faced by Kyler Murray and the Bengals defense, the first week provided a comprehensive preview of the storylines to follow as the preseason continues. NFL fans now have a clearer view of which rookies are ready to contribute and which teams need to address ongoing concerns before the regular season begins.
