The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off on Thursday, with numerous rookies making their first appearances in games on Friday. As the preseason begins, fans get their first look at new talent, whether rookies or offseason additions, with NFL Nation reporters providing summaries of standout debut performances to keep followers informed on player progress.
Friday’s highlights included Browns rookie quarterback Chedur Sanders, who impressed with a touchdown in the first half and displayed impressive accuracy and poise, stepping up amid injuries to the starting quarterbacks. Linebacker Carson Schwesinger and defensive tackle Mason Graham also had strong starts for Cleveland. The Panthers rookies had mixed results; first-round pick Tetaroa McMillan made a notable catch but struggled with route running, while edge rushers Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen combined for one sack but showed some containment issues.
For the Detroit Lions, rookie receiver Isaac Teslaa scored his first preseason touchdown and continues to impress, while third-year QB Hendon Hooker showed efficiency. The Falcons might consider Easton Stick a promising backup QB, as he threw a touchdown and completed most of his passes, although their rookies remained relatively quiet.
Patriots’ second-round pick Trevion Henderson electrified by returning the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown and complemented that with solid runs and catches. Meanwhile, Commanders’ rookie corner Trae Amos stood out with good defense, and their first-round pick Josh Connelly Jr. displayed growing comfort on the right tackle.
The Seahawks saw potential in Jalen Milroe, who demonstrated his running ability alongside solid passing, while rookie Tory Horton impressed as a receiver. For the Raiders, Ashton Jeanty’s running struggled, but Jamal Adams showed strong defense. Sadly, Colts’ Anthony Richardson exited early in his game due to a finger injury after a hit.
Ravens rookie Lajohntay Wester stood out with an 87-yard punt return touchdown, helping improve their punt return struggles from last season. Rookie kicker Tyler Loop showed promise but still needs to prove himself in the preseason.
Colts’ tight end Tyler Warren had a strong debut with 40 yards on 3 receptions, and new kicker Spencer Schludder connected on several field goals. The Eagles’ AJ Dillon showed encouraging rushing performance after injury, while undrafted rookie receiver Darius Cooper showcased impressive route-running. Linebacker Jihaad Campbell also made a notable interception.
Bengals’ defensive pick Shemar Stewart showed flashes despite limited snaps, and rookie guard Dylan Fairchild impressed, whereas some offensive line issues cropped up.
On Saturday, several games were scheduled, including Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants and Houston Texans vs. Minnesota Vikings, among others. Sunday featured Chicago Bears vs. Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Chargers vs. New Orleans Saints.
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Fan Take: This preseason preview highlights the influx of fresh talent eagerly awaited by NFL fans, offering a glimpse of future stars and team dynamics. Watching these rookies and new players take their first steps on the field energizes the league and could greatly influence team successes in the regular season.
