NFL Preseason 2025: Rising Stars and Setbacks
As the 2025 preseason unfolds, early games have provided a mix of standout performances and unexpected challenges. Coaches are examining every play as rookies and new signings come into their own under live conditions. Early contests have exposed vulnerabilities on offense while simultaneously letting emerging talents shine on special teams and defense. Observers now gain a preview of what teams may rely on during the regular season. Every snap offers insight into the adjustments necessary this season, and each game contributes details that could help shape team strategies moving forward.
Colts: A Sudden Loss Leaves Fans Concerned
During the opener between the Colts and the Ravens, Indianapolis’ quarterback Anthony Richardson was forced to leave the field in the opening quarter after sustaining a finger injury. The incident followed a heavy hit delivered by defensive player David Ojabo, resulting in Richardson’s abrupt departure. This incident raises immediate concerns about the Colts’ depth at the quarterback position. The coaching staff now must assess how to adjust their offensive plans while balancing veteran leadership with the promise of new talent. The loss of their starting signal-caller in such critical moments has left fans and analysts both worried and eager to see how the team responds in upcoming contests.
Seattle Seahawks: New Voices Making an Impact
In Seattle, rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe made an eye-catching debut despite his role as the team’s third option at the position. On one notable play, Milroe executed a well-timed zone-read that carried him 27 yards, revealing a potent combination of speed and agility. Across his few possessions, he recorded three rushes covering 38 yards and completed 6 of 10 passes for 61 yards, even guiding one scoring drive through his efforts. Meanwhile, rookie receiver Tory Horton has stepped up in a big way. With veteran receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling sitting out, Horton caught three passes for 31 yards and hauled in a touchdown from Drew Lock, making a strong case for a larger role this season.
Next up, the Seahawks will face the Chiefs at 10 p.m. ET on Friday, August 15, offering more chances for these newcomers to prove their worth.
Las Vegas Raiders: A Slow Start on the Ground
In Las Vegas, running back Ashton Jeanty’s first appearance did not meet expectations. The former Heisman Trophy candidate took three handoffs and finished with a net loss of one yard; his longest effort netted three yards before a subsequent play resulted in a four‐yard loss. Limited blocking by the offensive line contributed to an overall average of just 2.6 yards on nine carries during the first half. On the defensive side, recently signed linebacker Jamal Adams provided a boost. Over 14 plays, Adams recorded three tackles, including two key stops on running plays. One critical moment came during a third down when his effort near the middle of the field denied an opposing runner a big gain.
The Raiders now look to improve as they prepare to meet the 49ers at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 16.
Baltimore Ravens: Special Teams Spark and Improved Kicking
On the Baltimore side, rookie punt returner LaJohntay Wester injected energy into the special teams unit with an 87-yard return for a touchdown in the opening quarter. The sixth-round selection, who learned his craft under a renowned college coach, maneuvered past three would-be tacklers before sprinting along the sideline for a score. In addition to this explosive play, Wester recorded two receptions for a combined 41 yards, including a 30-yard catch. The Ravens also experimented with their lone kicker, Tyler Loop, who had a mixed outing. Although his initial 46-yard attempt veered wide left, he later converted a 52-yard kick in the fourth quarter. His camp average of 58 out of 62 successful field goals points to significant potential.
Baltimore will next take the field against the Cowboys at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 16.
Colts Revisited: Fresh Recruits Begin to Impress
Indianapolis witnessed another promising performance when rookie tight end Tyler Warren, the No. 14 draft pick, made his debut with confidence. Warren caught every pass thrown his way and tallied 40 receiving yards in total. One highlight came on a slant route when he snagged a 23-yard pass from Daniel Jones and then advanced an additional 14 yards after the reception. His ability to secure the ball and gain extra yardage has set a positive tone for his future in the offense. The Colts also evaluated new kicker Spencer Shrader during the first half, who attempted four field goals. He connected on kicks from 53, 33, and 39 yards, missing only a 52-yard attempt. Shrader’s performance is being closely monitored as he replaces former veteran Matt Gay in a highly competitive role.
Indianapolis will face the Packers at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 16, as they continue refining their roster.
Philadelphia Eagles: A Balanced Attack Emerges
The Eagles demonstrated balance in their performance through both ground and aerial attacks. Returning after a season away because of a neck injury, running back AJ Dillon managed five carries for a total of 27 yards—an average of about 5.4 yards per attempt. His contributions extended to the passing game, where he recorded three catches for 27 yards, adding versatility that the offense will appreciate. Additionally, undrafted rookie receiver Darius Cooper made his own mark by catching six passes for 82 yards, capped by a touchdown. On defense, first-round pick linebacker Jihaad Campbell nearly intercepted a pass during a drive, while fourth-round defensive tackle Ty Robinson logged two pressures and a sack during a key moment when he read an opposing screen play.
The Eagles are set to compete against the Browns at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 16, in what will test the new-found balance in their attack.
Cincinnati Bengals: Defensive Determination and Offensive Line Drama
For Cincinnati, rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart finally appeared after a delayed start related to contract matters. In 18 snaps on defense, the Texas A&M first-rounder made his impact felt by registering a three-yard tackle for a loss. On another occasion during a play-action move, his aggressive pursuit pressured the quarterback nearly into a turnover. His contributions highlight the intense focus of the Bengals’ defense as they integrate new talent. Meanwhile, rookie left guard Dylan Fairchild, a third-round selection expected to start, delivered a quiet but steady performance that contributed to overall line stability. In contrast, right guard Lucas Patrick experienced early struggles; his errors during the opening drive resulted in a penalty that could have cost the team crucial yardage.
Cincinnati is scheduled to face the Commanders at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, August 18, as they work to iron out these early issues.
Looking Ahead: A Test of Readiness
The early weeks of preseason action serve as a critical testing ground for every team. Coaches are closely assessing how new talents and recently acquired players perform under realistic conditions. Each team’s strategy is evolving as they blend prodigious skill with the practical demands of live games. With every play scrutinized by fans and analysts alike, the focus remains on adjusting techniques and fine-tuning rotations for both offense and defense. In many cases, the performances of rookies and role players in these matchups appear to be shaping plans for the weeks ahead, as teams decide which contributions to embrace for the long season.
Each upcoming contest will provide further insight into these tactical adjustments and player developments.
Final Thoughts
The unfolding experiences in this preseason highlight both encouraging signs and cautionary notes for all teams involved. Injuries, debut performances, and strategic tweaks have already set the stage for a competitive season ahead. Whether through the impressive returns on special teams or the rocky beginnings for some key players, every game contributes to an ongoing evaluation of talent and team readiness. As coaches refine their approaches and players adjust to the intensity of live play, the motion set in these early contests points to an engaging season filled with hard-fought battles on every side of the ball.
Fans and experts alike will watch closely as teams build chemistry and adjust tactics, with every snap contributing to the evolving picture of NFL success in 2025.
