David Awoyode
The second week of the 2025 NFL preseason kicked off on Friday, with teams giving extended looks to starters and evaluating roster depth ahead of the regular season.
49ers Edge Raiders 22-19
San Francisco 49ers: The Niners’ offense shone, highlighted by quarterback Brock Purdy connecting three times for 42 yards with receiver Ricky Pearsall on the opening drive. However, injuries struck as right guard Dominick Puni suffered a knee injury, likely limiting Week 1 starter appearances next week.
Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders’ run defense improved, allowing just 2.8 yards per carry, but the pass defense struggled. Defensive end Maxx Crosby and safety Jeremy Chinn had notable plays, but the unit remained inconsistent.
Texans Dominate Panthers 20-3
Houston Texans: Houston’s starting defense looked sharp, holding Bryce Young and the Panthers to minimal production. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. impressed with pressure and coverage, though one interception was nullified by a penalty.
Carolina Panthers: The Panthers’ starters received limited reps, leaving quarterback Bryce Young underwhelming in his few snaps. Coach Dave Canales may give more playing time in the preseason finale.
Browns Outpace Eagles 22-13
Cleveland Browns: Rookie QB Dillon Gabriel displayed a strong start, completing eight of nine passes on his opening drives but also threw a pick-six and lost a fumble. Joe Flacco is likely Week 1 starter, while backup options remain uncertain.
Philadelphia Eagles: Rookie safety Andrew Mukuba impressed with a pick-six and fumble recovery, strengthening his case for a starting role alongside Sydney Brown.
Patriots Top Vikings 20-12
New England Patriots: Undrafted WR Efton Chism III showcased his talent with six catches for 71 yards and a touchdown, potentially earning a roster spot among six or seven receivers.
Minnesota Vikings: Starters were mostly rested; backups Sam Howell and rookie Max Brosmer had mixed results at QB. Rookie receivers Tai Felton and Myles Price showed promise in the return game.
Packers Narrowly Beat Colts 23-19
Green Bay Packers: Rookie RB MarShawn Lloyd showed flashes of explosiveness despite penalties, highlighting his potential as Josh Jacobs’ backup.
Indianapolis Colts: QB Anthony Richardson Sr. logged his most extensive preseason reps, completing 6 of 11 passes, but penalties limited offensive success.
Dolphins Outlast Lions 24-17
Miami Dolphins: Backup QB Zach Wilson had a solid outing with 151 yards and a touchdown, while rookie Quinn Ewers impressed with two passing touchdowns, intensifying the backup QB competition.
Detroit Lions: RB Sione Vaki contributed in both offense and special teams, forcing a fumble and gaining 30 yards on five carries, showing versatility for an expanded role.
Seahawks Dominate Chiefs 33-16
Seattle Seahawks: Zach Charbonnet emerged as a strong candidate for a larger role in the backfield, showcasing vision and explosiveness in the absence of Kenneth Walker III.
Kansas City Chiefs: All key rookie defenders struggled, giving up substantial rushing yards. Cornerback Nohl Williams exited with a concussion.
Titans Outlast Falcons 23-20
Tennessee Titans: Rookies Elic Ayomanor and Gunnar Helm impressed with key receptions and a touchdown, showing strong chemistry in the passing game.
Atlanta Falcons: WR corps continued to compete for roster spots, with standout plays from Chris Blair and Dylan Drummond. David Sills V likely secured a roster spot after limited action.
Upcoming Games
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Saturday: Ravens at Cowboys, Chargers at Rams, Jets at Giants, Buccaneers at Steelers, Cardinals at Broncos
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Sunday: Jaguars at Saints, Bills at Bears
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Monday: Bengals at Commanders
Charles Esther