Ranking Rookie QB Debuts from NFL Preseason Week 1
The opening weekend of the NFL preseason gave fans their first look at this year’s rookie quarterback class under live fire. Eleven first-year signal-callers saw the field in Week 1, each at different stages of development — from first-round hopefuls to late-round flyers fighting for a roster spot.
Some, like Cameron Ward, are gearing up to start immediately. Others, like Jaxson Dart, are learning behind veterans. And then there’s Shedeur Sanders, who took advantage of an unexpected opportunity and delivered.
Here’s how the rookies ranked after their preseason debuts.
1. Jaxson Dart – New York Giants
Stats: 12-of-19, 154 yards, 1 TD; 24 rush yards
Dart showed poise against Buffalo’s starters, leading three scoring drives in four possessions. His 28-yard touchdown to Lil’Jordan Humphrey came under pressure, showcasing both accuracy and toughness.
2. Shedeur Sanders – Cleveland Browns
Stats: 14-of-23, 138 yards, 2 TD; 19 rush yards
With Joe Flacco resting and two other QBs sidelined, Sanders started and played nearly three quarters. He flashed mobility and arm talent, highlighted by a perfectly placed touchdown to Kaden Davis and a 30-yard strike to Luke Floriea under duress.
3. Cam Miller – Las Vegas Raiders
Stats: 6-of-7, 76 yards, 1 TD
Miller came in late but was efficient and confident, including a 41-yard touchdown toss. He nearly set up a game-winning field goal before a block ended the chance.
4. Jalen Milroe – Seattle Seahawks
Stats: 6-of-10, 61 yards; 38 rush yards
Known for his legs, Milroe added flashes as a passer, including a tight-window throw to Ricky White III.
5. Cam Ward – Tennessee Titans
Stats: 5-of-8, 67 yards
The No. 1 overall pick played two series, finding early rhythm with Calvin Ridley on a drive that ended in six points.
6. J.J. McCarthy – Minnesota Vikings*
Stats: 4-of-7, 30 yards
Returning from a season-ending injury in 2024, McCarthy led a methodical opening drive capped with a field goal.
7. Tyler Shough – New Orleans Saints
Stats: 15-of-22, 165 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
A pick-six marred Shough’s day, but he responded with a 54-yard touchdown strike.
8. Riley Leonard – Indianapolis Colts
Stats: 12-of-24, 92 yards, 1 INT; 34 rush yards
Leonard’s dual-threat ability was on display in a touchdown drive, though his late interception stalled momentum.
9. Quinn Ewers – Miami Dolphins
Stats: 5-of-18, 91 yards, 2 fumbles lost
Turnovers and sacks derailed Ewers’ debut, despite flashes in the hurry-up offense.
10. Kyle McCord – Philadelphia Eagles
Stats: 1-of-5, 8 yards, 1 INT
Struggled with timing and comfort in limited fourth-quarter action.
11. Graham Mertz – Houston Texans
Stats: 7-of-14, 27 yards, 3 INT
Three straight interceptions ended a nightmare debut for the sixth-rounder.