The 2025 NFL preseason burst onto the scene this weekend with a vivid showcase of emerging talent and memorable moments—writing its own opening chapter ahead of the season proper. Let’s dig into the drama unfolding across the field…
Chargers Roll in Canton
In a statement opener at the Hall of Fame Game on July 31, the Los Angeles Chargers steamrolled the Detroit Lions, 34–7. Trey Lance—wearing the No. 3 hat with a swagger of a former top pick—threw a pair of touchdowns and dominated the action on the field.(FOX Sports, The Times of India, NBC)
Jaxson Dart & Giants Ignite
Saturday spotlight shone on rookie QB Jaxson Dart, whose first NFL snaps with the Giants were as smooth as they come. He slung the ball for 154 yards, hit a touchdown, and showed some spark with his legs—all while ahead of a sweet moment later when he embraced his mom in the stands.(Big Blue View, New York Post, Reuters)
Alongside, veteran Russell Wilson set the tone early, and special teams wizardry from Graham Gano (three long FGs) sealed a 34–25 win over the Bills.(Big Blue View)
Dazzling, Dual Threat Travis Hunter & 70-Yarder!
The buzz-worthy moment came courtesy of Travis Hunter—the No. 2 pick—who played both WR and cornerback for the Jaguars, admitting he was “nervous” but found his groove fast.(New York Post, Reuters)
And who could miss kicker Cam Little, who launched a jaw-dropping 70-yard field goal—a preseason “record” that had fans and legends alike hitting the replay—highlighting the Jaguars’ 31–25 loss to Pittsburgh.(CBSSports.com, bigcatcountry.com, News.com.au, Reuters)
Rookies Shine… But Painful Notes for Some
- Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland’s new QB, made a bold statement with 138 passing yards and two TDs, guiding the Browns past the Panthers, 30–10.(NFL.com, Wikipedia)
- On the flip side, in a rough outing, the Commanders fell 48–18 to the Patriots, plagued by poor special teams, blown coverage, and mounting penalties—though rookie Trey Amos offered some defensive hope.(The Washington Post, Hogs Haven)
What This Means for the Season Ahead
- Rookie Watch: Dart, Hunter, and Sanders are already sending waves—watch them closely.
- Special Teams Drama: Gano’s leg and Little’s igniter kickoff show that hidden playmakers matter.
- Growing Pains for Depth: The Commanders highlight that backup units need polishing if true to compete.
- Heat Under the Hood: From smart QB debuts to magical FGs and high-wire plays—excitement is building fast.
Fast Break
Chargers flexed muscle early; Giants’ rookie QB dazzled; Jaguars’ multi-role star and teen kicker stunned everyone; Browns cruised; Commanders stumbled but a few rookie sparks shone.
The preseason is just warming up—and this weekend’s fireworks are already promising a heated, high-stakes season to come.