The 16 preseason contests have finally come to an end, giving us a glimpse into how this year’s rookies will fare in the NFL. Here’s our assessment of each rookie who participated:
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Sanders led the Browns to three touchdowns, but struggled with accuracy on short throws and deep passes. Despite the mistakes, he showed potential as a mobile quarterback.
New York Jets’ Stewart impressed with his versatility, beating veteran right tackle Matt Pryor for a tackle for loss. He also showed flashes of physicality in pass protection, though there were moments where he was pushed to the ground or blocked out of run plays.
Cleveland Browns’ Zabel looked like a starting left guard, using athleticism and footwork to anchor against strength and operate in space as a pass protector. However, he had two “rookie moments” – being overwhelmed by a bull rush on the first play and failing to get off a combo block in the second series.
Green Bay Packers’ TeSlaa unveiled his athleticism with a 6-foot-4 frame and quick footwork, separating from defenders on multiple occasions. He also showed savvy as a blocker, jumping on a potential forward fumble early but drawing a flag for blocking a defender later.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Johnson complemented Aaron Rodgers’ passing attack in the Steelers’ offense, using jump-cuts behind zone blocking to get outside on multiple runs. However, he fell to a shoestring tackle on his first attempt and struggled against the Jaguars’ defense.
Minnesota Vikings’ Jackson went undrafted due to size concerns but showed out in the second half of their game against Tennessee, making six tackles and intercepting a tipped pass.
Kansas City Chiefs’ Williams proved himself as a third-round bargain, playing at the line of scrimmage most of the game with quick feet and balance. He broke up a red-zone fade and played well in zone coverage.
Seattle Seahawks’ Membou showed his talent throughout their win over Green Bay, moving on first-downs and solidifying pass protection. However, he struggled against Brenton Cox Jr., losing his balance to allow backfield penetration late in the first quarter.
San Francisco 49ers’ Collins lined up at multiple defensive tackle spots, using leverage, a strong punch, and active feet to hold ground against single blocks. He consistently chased plays downfield but spent most pass plays watching the quarterback.
Las Vegas Raiders’ Grant is expected to often play on or outside the guard in the Dolphins’ scheme, using his thick lower body to stay put against the run and shed blocks as the game went on.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/news/2025-nfl-preseason-week-1-rookie-grades-shedeur-sanders-seizes-opportunity-tyler-warren-meets-hype