2025 NFL Preseason: Rookie Watch - Who's Standing Out?

With Week 1 of the NFL preseason in the books, rookies across the league are making their initial push to prove they belong. While it's early, some exciting talents are already turning heads and creating buzz.

Quarterback Competition Heating Up

• Shedeur Sanders (Browns): Despite being a fifth-round pick, Sanders started the Browns' first preseason game and delivered an impressive performance, completing 14-of-23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns against the Carolina Panthers. Unfortunately, he's currently dealing with an oblique strain and is unlikely to play in Week 2. This opens the door for other quarterbacks like Kenny Pickett (hamstring) and Dillon Gabriel (hamstring) who are battling injuries, alongside veteran Joe Flacco.

• Jaxson Dart (Giants): The first-round pick showed promise in his debut, leading three scoring drives in the Giants' nine-point win over the Bills.

Other Noteworthy Rookie Performances

• Travis Hunter (Jaguars): The two-way star and second overall pick saw action on both offense and defense in his debut. He had two catches for 9 yards on offense and played a handful of snaps on defense.

• LaJohntay Wester (Ravens): This rookie wide receiver impressed with an 87-yard punt return touchdown and two receptions for 41 yards, earning the highest PFF grade among rookie receivers in Week 1.

• Eric Rogers (Chargers): This undrafted cornerback had a stellar performance, notching two interceptions, including a pick-six, and earning the highest PFF grade of all rookies in Week 1.

• Nic Scourton & Princely Umanmielen (Panthers): These two rookie edge rushers have been performing well and are expected to earn significant snaps.

• Ashton Jeanty (Raiders): The talented running back is predicted by some to be a strong contender for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Rookie Stock Report

Based on Week 1 performances and predictions for the season, here's a look at how some rookies are trending:

Looking Ahead

While preseason Week 1 offers a glimpse into the potential of these rookies, it's essential to remember that it's only the beginning. There are two more weeks of preseason games for these young players to continue developing and staking their claim to a spot on the 53-man roster. It will be exciting to see how these and other rookies perform in the coming weeks as they battle for roles and look to make their mark on the 2025 NFL season.