As the NFL’s 2025 preseason gets underway, Week 1 offered the first live-action glimpses of rookie quarterbacks and fresh faces across the league. From standout performances to brutal missteps, here’s what stood out—and what fans should watch as cut-down day looms.

1. Jaxson Dart Shines, Pressure Builds in Giants’ HQ

Rookie Jaxson Dart, paired with veteran Russell Wilson, impressed as he threw for 372 yards and three touchdowns with zero interceptions throughout the preseason so far. His poise and leadership have sparked optimism in New York, though the team is pacing his development strategically rather than thrusting him into the starting role immediately.

Reddit users agree:

“So far this preseason, Jaxson Dart has completed 74% of his passes, for two TDs and 0 interceptions… his PFF grade of 74.5 is the third best among rookies.”

Takeaway: The Giants are balancing hype with caution as they groom a potential Franchise QB.

2. Shedeur Sanders Flashes—and Flames Out in the Finale

Shedeur Sanders began his preseason on a high, delivering an impressive debut—14 completions on 23 attempts for 138 yards and two TDs.

But Week 3 saw a dramatic dip: just 3-for-6 passing, 14 yards, and five sacks—along with a brutal 24-yard sack due to poor pocket awareness. The backlash was swift: fans demanded trades and pundits like Skip Bayless publicly questioned the coaching strategy behind Sanders’ usage.

Takeaway: A promising start gave way to growing pains—and a test of organizational patience.

3. Rookie QB Power Rankings — Cam Ward in Favor

Dynasty QB tracker ranks Cam Ward, the No. 1 pick by the Titans, as the most NFL-ready rookie—he’s also the only one expected to start in Week 1.  Other rookies—like Dart, Tyler Shough, and Jalen Milroe—show upside but will likely back up vets initially.

Takeaway: While Ward appears ready for Day 1, many QBs will wait in the wings—or seize opportunities quickly if available.

4. Evolving QB Storylines Across the League

  • Giants continue a measured developmental strategy for Dart, learning from the Colts’ mishandling of Anthony Richardson vs. Daniel Jones.

  • The Colts illustrate the risks—starting Richardson early led to injuries and inconsistency.

Takeaway: Franchise QB development often thrives with patience, not rash promotion.

5. Other Noteworthy Notes

  • Dak Prescott of the Cowboys remains sidelined for preseason—highlighting a rare cautious approach among teams with a new head coach.

  • Dorian Thompson-Robinson was waived by the Eagles, with Sam Howell firmly planting himself as QB3 behind the projected starters.

Conclusion & What’s Next

Week 1 of the NFL Preseason painted a mixed portrait of NFL’s brightest QB hopes. Some, like Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart, forged strong early narratives; others, like Shedeur Sanders, encountered early adversity. As teams reduce rosters to 53 men, these rookie stories will shape—and shift—their futures.