2025 NFL Preseason Week 1 Highlights: Rising Stars and Rookie Debuts

Explore the standout performances and rookie debuts from Week 1 of the 2025 NFL preseason, featuring key insights and game highlights.

The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off with a bang, showcasing the talents of rookies and new acquisitions across the league. Here’s a detailed look at the key performances and standout moments from Week 1.

Seahawks vs. Raiders: A Glimpse of Future Stars

Seahawks: Jalen Milroe, the third-string quarterback, made a significant impact with his running ability. His 27-yard zone-read keeper highlighted his potential to contribute to Seattle’s offense. Milroe completed 6 of 10 passes for 61 yards and led a touchdown drive. Rookie Tory Horton also shined, catching three passes for 31 yards and a touchdown, making a strong case for the No. 3 receiver spot.

Raiders: Ashton Jeanty’s debut was less impressive, with minus-1 yards on three carries. However, Jamal Adams, the new weak-side linebacker, showed promise with three tackles, including two run stuffs.

Ravens vs. Colts: Special Teams Spark

Ravens: LaJohntay Wester electrified the punt return game with an 87-yard touchdown return. His elusiveness and speed were on full display, addressing a key weakness from last season. Rookie kicker Tyler Loop, despite missing a 46-yard attempt, nailed a 52-yard field goal, showing his potential.

Colts: Tight end Tyler Warren, the No. 14 pick, made an immediate impact with three catches for 40 yards. New kicker Spencer Shrader connected on three field goals, including a 53-yarder.

Eagles vs. Bengals: Encouraging Starts

Eagles: Running back AJ Dillon returned from injury with a solid performance, rushing for 27 yards and catching three passes for 27 yards. Undrafted rookie Darius Cooper stood out with six catches for 82 yards and a touchdown.

Bengals: First-round pick Shemar Stewart was disruptive on defense, recording a tackle for loss and nearly forcing an interception. Rookie guard Dylan Fairchild had a steady debut, a positive sign for the offensive line.

Upcoming Games

Stay tuned for more action as the preseason continues with key matchups:

  • Friday: Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns at Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders at New England Patriots.
  • Saturday: New York Giants at Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans at Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers at Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets at Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs at Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos at San Francisco 49ers.
  • Sunday: Miami Dolphins at Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints at Los Angeles Chargers.

For more updates and in-depth analysis, follow NFL Nation on ESPN and other platforms.

What to Read Next

49ers Outlast Rams in Overtime Thriller: Pineiro's Clutch Kick Seals Dramatic NFC West Victory
NFL

49ers Outlast Rams in Overtime Thriller: Pineiro's Clutch Kick Seals Dramatic NFC West Victory

A nail-biting overtime clash saw the San Francisco 49ers overcome injuries and adversity as Eddy Pineiro's 41-yard field goal clinched a 26-23 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Backup QB Mac Jones delivered a gutsy 342-yard performance in a pivotal NFC West showdown at SoFi Stadium.

NFL Expands Global Reach with Multi-Year Deal to Host Games in Rio de Janeiro
NFL

NFL Expands Global Reach with Multi-Year Deal to Host Games in Rio de Janeiro

The NFL continues its global expansion with a multi-year commitment to host regular-season games in Rio de Janeiro, starting in 2026.

Malik Washington Emerges as Miami Dolphins' Key WR3: Building Chemistry with Tua Tagovailoa
NFL

Malik Washington Emerges as Miami Dolphins' Key WR3: Building Chemistry with Tua Tagovailoa

Malik Washington is proving his worth as the Miami Dolphins' third wide receiver, building strong chemistry with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for a promising season.

Top NFL Draft Picks for 2025: Bo Nix, Calvin Ridley, and More Fantasy Football Stars
NFL

Top NFL Draft Picks for 2025: Bo Nix, Calvin Ridley, and More Fantasy Football Stars

Discover Eric Moody's top NFL draft targets for the 2025 fantasy football season, including Bo Nix, Calvin Ridley, and other potential breakout stars.

Matthew Stafford Nears 60,000 Yards: NFL Quarterbacks Milestone Race Heats Up
NFL

Matthew Stafford Nears 60,000 Yards: NFL Quarterbacks Milestone Race Heats Up

Matthew Stafford is on the verge of joining the elite 60,000-yard club, while Aaron Rodgers aims to climb higher in the NFL's all-time passing yards list.

Reunited for Redemption: Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson's Journey with the New York Jets
NFL

Reunited for Redemption: Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson's Journey with the New York Jets

Justin Fields and Garrett Wilson reunite with the New York Jets, aiming to revive their careers and lead the team to success in the NFL.

How Terry McLaurin's New Deal Energizes Washington Commanders' Offense for the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

How Terry McLaurin's New Deal Energizes Washington Commanders' Offense for the 2025 NFL Season

Terry McLaurin's new contract boosts the Washington Commanders' offense, setting a positive tone for the 2025 NFL season.

Bengals Secure Trey Hendrickson: Key to Unlocking Championship Potential
NFL

Bengals Secure Trey Hendrickson: Key to Unlocking Championship Potential

The Cincinnati Bengals finalize Trey Hendrickson's contract, setting the stage for a pivotal 2025 NFL season with high expectations for their star-studded roster.

Trey Hendrickson Contract Saga: Pay, Trade, or Holdout? The Future of Bengals' Defense Hangs in the Balance
NFL

Trey Hendrickson Contract Saga: Pay, Trade, or Holdout? The Future of Bengals' Defense Hangs in the Balance

The Bengals face a critical decision with Trey Hendrickson: pay the star edge rusher, trade him, or risk a holdout. Explore the complexities of this NFL contract saga.

Top NFL Trades Before the 2025 Season: Where Could Anthony Richardson Land?
NFL

Top NFL Trades Before the 2025 Season: Where Could Anthony Richardson Land?

Explore potential NFL trades involving key players like Anthony Richardson, Trey Hendrickson, and Adam Thielen as teams finalize rosters for the 2025 season.

Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr.: Building the Ultimate NFL Connection
NFL

Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr.: Building the Ultimate NFL Connection

Explore how Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr. are strengthening their connection to elevate the Arizona Cardinals' offense in the 2025 NFL season.

2025 NFL Roster Shake-Up: Live Updates on Cuts, Trades, and Final Moves
NFL

2025 NFL Roster Shake-Up: Live Updates on Cuts, Trades, and Final Moves

Stay updated with live tracking of NFL roster cuts, trades, and final moves as teams prepare for the 2025 season. Get the latest intel and insights.

Building a Championship Culture: Sean Payton's Blueprint for the Denver Broncos' Super Bowl Aspirations
NFL

Building a Championship Culture: Sean Payton's Blueprint for the Denver Broncos' Super Bowl Aspirations

Explore how Sean Payton is transforming the Denver Broncos with a youth-focused, culture-driven strategy aimed at securing a Super Bowl victory.

NFL 2025 Season: Key Questions Surrounding the San Francisco 49ers' Offensive Lineup
NFL

NFL 2025 Season: Key Questions Surrounding the San Francisco 49ers' Offensive Lineup

Explore the critical questions and strategic changes shaping the San Francisco 49ers' offensive lineup for the NFL 2025 season.

Top NFL Snubs of 2025: Players Who Deserved a Spot in the Top 100
NFL

Top NFL Snubs of 2025: Players Who Deserved a Spot in the Top 100

Discover the top NFL players who were snubbed from the 2025 Top 100 list, as identified by league insiders and experts.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.