The 2025 NFL preseason is nearing its conclusion, with teams finalizing preparations ahead of the regular season. After games on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, players on the edge of the roster are making one last impression before roster cuts on Tuesday.
Saturday featured the largest number of games during this three-day stretch, showcasing a variety of strategies regarding player participation. For example, Bo Nix and some Denver starters played in Week 3, while Joe Flacco and the Cleveland Browns starters also took the field. Conversely, the Buffalo Bills opted to rest NFL MVP Josh Allen for the finale, a strategy mirrored by the Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, with Jalen Hurts and their starters.
Regardless of whether star players participated or sat out, numerous storylines emerged from the final week of the preseason. Below are key takeaways from Friday and Saturday’s games.
Shedeur Sanders’ Final Performance
Shedeur Sanders was a standout of the 2025 preseason, especially following a strong performance in the opener. However, after missing Week 2 due to injury, his return on Saturday yielded disappointing results. Coming in as the third quarterback after Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, Sanders struggled, completing just three of six passes for 14 yards and being sacked five times. He was replaced by Tyler Huntley late in the fourth quarter, raising concerns about his chances of making the 53-man roster.
Bo Nix and Courtland Sutton Shine
Denver’s starters shined in the final week, particularly Bo Nix, who completed 10 of 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. His touchdown was a 19-yard connection with star wide receiver Courtland Sutton, who ended the game with four catches for 83 yards. Their chemistry was evident, as they previously set up the score with a 43-yard gain down the sideline, showcasing both players’ readiness for the regular season.
Isaac TeSlaa Emerges as a Key Player for the Lions
While the Lions rested their starters during the finale, rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa made an impression, catching two passes for 41 yards and a touchdown. Throughout the preseason, TeSlaa has been impressive, making 10 of 13 catches for 146 yards and three touchdowns. By the end of the season, he could very well secure the WR3 position on the Lions’ depth chart.
Patrick Mahomes Impresses Again
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid typically lets his starters play in the preseason, and that was evident again as Patrick Mahomes had a strong showing, completing 8 of 13 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown—his highest total in a preseason game. Mahomes demonstrated excellent form, throwing a 58-yard deep ball to Tyquan Thornton and connecting with Travis Kelce on a 20-yard pass, as the Chiefs scored on all three series he played, positioning him for a successful season ahead.
Success for Van Jefferson in Push for Roster Spot
Amid added competition at wide receiver for the Titans, Van Jefferson made a solid case for a roster spot, recording three catches for 105 yards and a touchdown in his final preseason attempt. His performance included a noteworthy 65-yard touchdown during a catch-and-run. Despite new draft picks and free-agent signings, Jefferson’s compelling showing raised questions about his future with the team.
Caleb Williams’ Solid Preseason Finale
Caleb Williams started on Friday against the Chiefs and had a productive outing, finishing 11 of 15 for 113 yards and a touchdown. The Bears scored twice during his four possessions, and his touchdown pass to Rome Odunze highlighted his continued growth. His preseason stats showed he completed 17 of 25 passes for 220 yards and two touchdowns, displaying the confidence and comfort that should encourage Bears fans as they head into the regular season.
