The 2025 NFL preseason is officially underway, and after Week 1, the gridiron has already given fans plenty to talk about. From powerhouse performances to breakout rookies, teams are beginning to shape the storylines that will define the season ahead. And while the preseason is only a warm-up, the energy, talent, and drama are already in midseason form.
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Teams Looking Strong Early

Some squads came out swinging in Week 1, making a statement before the regular season even begins:
Philadelphia Eagles
Fresh off a Super Bowl victory, the Eagles have undergone some personnel and coaching shifts, but their offensive core remains intact. Under defensive mastermind Vic Fangio, their young defense — the youngest projected in the NFL this season — is drawing major attention. The Sporting News has already ranked them No. 1 after Week 1, proving they’re still the team to beat.
Baltimore Ravens
Preseason dominance is nothing new for Baltimore, but this year, they’ve added extra firepower. Lamar Jackson looks sharp in his third year within the same offensive scheme, and the defense is thriving. The secondary — featuring Jaire Alexander and rookie Malaki Starks — is ranked among the best in the league.
Buffalo Bills
MVP quarterback Josh Allen leads an offense packed with talent, including James Cook and a rock-solid O-line. On defense, the Bills went on a spending spree, bringing in Joey Bosa, Michael Hoecht, and Larry Ogunjobi, while also drafting three defensive linemen. The message is clear: Buffalo is going all in.
Detroit Lions
Transitioning to new coordinators hasn’t slowed Detroit’s momentum. With Jared Goff steering the offense and Aidan Hutchinson anchoring the defense, the Lions look like a team ready to make noise.
Washington Commanders
Washington upgraded big time in the offseason, trading for Laremy Tunsil and drafting Josh Conerly Jr. to bolster their O-line. They also added Deebo Samuel to the receiving corps, giving rookie QB Jayden Daniels some serious weapons.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh’s first preseason game as head coach turned heads. Justin Herbert lit up the scoreboard with 34 points against the Giants, and the defense looked solid in coverage. If Week 1 is any indication, the Chargers are ready to roll.
Rookies Making a Splash
The preseason is the perfect proving ground for rookies — and this year’s class has wasted no time making headlines:
- Tyler Warren (Colts) – The first-round Penn State tight end displayed elite receiving and blocking against Baltimore.
- Shedeur Sanders (Browns) – Three touchdowns in his debut, sharp red-zone accuracy, and the confidence to command an offense.
- Jaxson Dart (Giants) – Showed poise and athleticism, plus his first NFL TD against Buffalo.
- Josaiah Stewart (Rams) – Sack and strong edge play against Dallas.
- Nohl Williams (Chiefs) – Standout coverage skills and a key red-zone pass breakup.
- Armand Membou (Jets) – Dominated as both a pass and run blocker against Green Bay.
Preseason Week 2: Key Storylines
Tonight’s action features Falcons vs. Titans and Seahawks vs. Chiefs on NFL Network and NFL+. But there’s more than just the scoreboard to watch:
- Quarterback Competitions:
- Browns are still unsettled with Joe Flacco and Shedeur Sanders both battling injuries.
- Bears fans finally get to see Caleb Williams in action.
- Colts are deciding between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones.
- Saints’ QB battle between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler continues.
- Justin Herbert makes his preseason debut for the Chargers.
- Injury Updates:
- Jordan Love (Packers) had successful thumb surgery, expected for Week 1.
- WR Jayden Reed may miss the opener.
- Brandon Scherff has retired.
- Notable injuries include Dalvin Tomlinson, Jaycee Horn, Nick Bosa, Chop Robinson, Malik Nabers, and Deonte Banks.
- Vikings WR Rondale Moore is out for the year.
- Other Headlines:
- James Cook signs an extension with Buffalo.
- Buccaneers reveal uniform schedule — Creamsicles are back.
- Odell Beckham Jr. hints at playing on.
- NFL continues its social justice initiatives.
The Takeaway
Week 1 of the NFL preseason has delivered high-octane football, breakout performances, and fresh storylines. Whether it’s the Eagles proving they’re still elite, the Ravens showing defensive dominance, or rookies making instant impacts, the stage is set for a thrilling 2025 season.
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