Cleaveland, Ohio – The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off with excitement as rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders took the field for the Cleveland Browns, dazzling fans with two first-half touchdowns in his debut against the Philadelphia Eagles. Starting in place of injured quarterbacks Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel, Sanders showcased the skills that had many experts believing he was a top quarterback before falling to the fifth round of the draft.
In just under three quarters of play, Sanders demonstrated impressive accuracy and composure, completing several critical passes that ignited the Browns’ offense. Additionally, Carson Schwesinger, a linebacker drafted in the second round, made his mark by leading the team with six tackles, while first-round pick Mason Graham contributed with a quarterback pressure on two drives.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers had a more subdued showing. First-round pick Tetairoa McMillan managed only two catches from five targets, despite a highlight-reel over-the-shoulder catch for 30 yards. The Panthers’ edge rushers struggled, only managing a single sack, leaving ample room for improvement as they move forward.
In Detroit, rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa scored a touchdown, catching an 11-yard pass from backup quarterback Kyle Allen, while third-year quarterback Hendon Hooker faced challenges with two fumbles and low passing yardage during his first-half performance.
The Atlanta Falcons saw quarterback Easton Stick show promise, completing 15 of 18 passes and throwing a touchdown. On the other hand, TreVeyon Henderson of the New England Patriots ignited the crowd with an explosive 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Overall, the first week of the preseason provided fans a glimpse into the potential of both upcoming rookies and the adjustments teams may need to make before the regular season begins. With several games scheduled in the coming days, excitement continues to build around the NFL as each team showcases their new talent on the field.
