Rookie QB Report: Which NFL First-Year Quarterbacks Are Rising and Falling After Preseason?
The NFL preseason is a crucial proving ground, especially for rookie quarterbacks eager to showcase their potential. As teams fine-tune their rosters and strategies, the performance of these young signal-callers offers a glimpse into the future. With the 2025 season on the horizon, let’s dive into which rookie QBs are making waves and which ones are facing challenges.
The Rising Stars
Jaxson Dart, New York Giants: Dart has been nothing short of sensational this preseason. The Giants traded back into the first round to snag the Ole Miss standout, and he’s quickly proving why. In Week 2 against the Jets, Dart completed an impressive 14 of 16 passes for 137 yards and a touchdown. His ability to lead the offense, even with backups, has turned heads. Dart capped off a 71-yard drive with a touchdown pass to Greg Dulcich and added a rushing touchdown, completing 13 consecutive passes at one point.
In his preseason debut, Dart showcased poise against the Buffalo Bills’ first-team defense, delivering a well-placed touchdown pass to Lil’Jordan Humphrey. Through two preseason games, Dart has completed 26 of 35 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns. While Russell Wilson is slated to start Week 1, Dart’s performance is making a strong case for early playing time.
Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland Browns: Despite a dramatic slide in the draft, Sanders is making the most of his opportunity in Cleveland. In his preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns. He demonstrated poise and awareness in the pocket, leading the Browns to three touchdown drives.
Sanders’ performance has sparked optimism that he could challenge Dillon Gabriel for the backup role behind Joe Flacco. Although an oblique injury sidelined him for a recent preseason game, the Browns are hopeful for his return. Sanders’ ability to avoid negative plays and make smart decisions has impressed coaches and fans alike.
Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints: Shough is in contention for the starting job in New Orleans. He played the entire first half against the Jaguars in Week 2, completing 9 of 12 passes for 66 yards. While the Saints’ offense struggled to generate points, Shough displayed accuracy and decision-making.
In his NFL debut, Shough overcame an early interception to throw a 54-yard touchdown pass to Mason Tipton. The Saints are evaluating Shough and Spencer Rattler to determine who will lead the team in 2025. Shough’s experience and arm talent give him a legitimate shot at winning the job.
Facing Challenges
Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans: As the No. 1 overall pick, Ward carries immense expectations. However, his preseason performance has been inconsistent. In Week 2 against the Falcons, Ward completed just 2 of 7 passes for 42 yards. While he connected with Elic Ayomanor for a 35-yard gain, Ward struggled with accuracy and decision-making on other throws.
Despite the rocky preseason, Ward is still expected to start Week 1 for the Titans. The team is counting on him to revitalize the franchise, but he’ll need to improve his consistency and command of the offense.
Dillon Gabriel, Cleveland Browns: Gabriel’s preseason has been marred by turnovers and missed opportunities. In Week 2 against the Eagles, he threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown and lost a fumble. While he showed flashes of potential, Gabriel needs to demonstrate better ball security and decision-making to secure a role in the Browns’ quarterback room.
With Joe Flacco named the starter, Gabriel’s path to playing time is uncertain. He’ll need to impress coaches in practice and preseason games to earn a spot on the roster.
Graham Mertz, Houston Texans: Mertz had a disastrous preseason debut, throwing three interceptions in consecutive drives against the Minnesota Vikings. The sixth-round pick struggled with accuracy and decision-making, raising concerns about his ability to contribute to the Texans’ offense.
Mertz faces an uphill battle to make the Texans’ roster. He’ll need to show significant improvement in the remaining preseason games to prove he belongs in the NFL.
Other Notable Performances
Jalen Milroe, Seattle Seahawks: Milroe is competing for the backup quarterback spot in Seattle. In the Seahawks’ tie against the Raiders, he completed 6 of 10 passes for 61 yards and rushed for 38 yards on three attempts. Milroe’s athleticism and running ability could make him a valuable asset to the Seahawks’ offense.
Kyle McCord, Philadelphia Eagles: McCord has shown flashes of potential in the Eagles’ preseason games. He completed 8 of 16 passes for 47 yards and a touchdown in Week 2. McCord’s accuracy and arm strength could make him a developmental prospect for the Eagles.
Preseason Success: Does It Translate?
The question remains: does preseason performance translate to regular-season success for rookie quarterbacks? History offers mixed results. While some rookies, like Dak Prescott, have parlayed strong preseasons into outstanding regular seasons, others have struggled to replicate their success.
In 2021, Zach Wilson had a stellar preseason but struggled mightily in the regular season. Conversely, C.J. Stroud had a mediocre preseason but went on to have one of the best rookie seasons in NFL history.
Ultimately, preseason performance is just one piece of the puzzle. Factors such as coaching, supporting cast, and overall team performance also play a significant role in a rookie quarterback’s success.
The 2025 NFL season promises to be an exciting one for rookie quarterbacks. As these young players continue to develop and refine their skills, they’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of their respective franchises.