The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off with a series of exciting matchups, showcasing emerging talents and setting the stage for the upcoming regular season.
In the opening game, the Philadelphia Eagles secured a 34-27 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Quarterback Tanner McKee, filling in for Jalen Hurts, delivered an impressive performance, completing 20 of 25 passes for 252 yards and three first-half touchdowns. His scoring passes included a 6-yard connection to Ainias Smith and a 20-yard strike to Darius Cooper, who amassed 82 receiving yards. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow also showcased his skills, completing 9 of 10 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns before exiting the game.
The Baltimore Ravens triumphed over the Indianapolis Colts with a 24-16 win. Rookie running back Keaton Mitchell led the Ravens' offense, rushing for 68 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, rookie LaJohntay Wester contributed with an 87-yard punt return touchdown. The Colts faced challenges as starting quarterback Anthony Richardson left early due to a dislocated pinkie, with backup Daniel Jones stepping in to throw for 144 yards. Khalil Herbert scored the Colts' only touchdown.
In a closely contested game, the Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks ended in a 23-23 tie. A pivotal blocked field goal by Jalan Gaines preserved the tie for the Seahawks in head coach Pete Carroll's debut. Raiders quarterback Cam Miller led a late-game comeback, while Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock threw for 147 yards and a touchdown.
The Cleveland Browns highlighted rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in their first preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. With injuries sidelining fellow quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Kenny Pickett, Sanders seized the opportunity to start. Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in Sanders, noting his eagerness to prove himself. This game serves as a crucial platform for Sanders to establish himself as a potential long-term solution to the Browns' quarterback position.
In other preseason developments, the Los Angeles Rams are cautiously managing quarterback Matthew Stafford's back injury. Stafford is scheduled for a workout on Saturday, with plans to return to practice on Monday if the session goes well. Head coach Sean McVay emphasized that Stafford would be playing if it were a regular-season game, indicating a measured approach during the preseason.
Additionally, Green Bay Packers All-Pro safety Xavier McKinney is dealing with a calf injury that may keep him out for the remainder of training camp and the preseason. Despite the setback, McKinney assured reporters that he will be ready for the regular season opener. The 26-year-old is coming off a career-best season, earning Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors.
As the preseason progresses, teams continue to evaluate their rosters, with players like Sanders and McKinney aiming to solidify their positions ahead of the regular season. Fans can look forward to more preseason action, providing further insights into team dynamics and player performances.
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