Rookie quarterbacks draw attention in opening NFL preseason games
Several first-year quarterbacks and players in new roles made their first preseason appearances as teams began evaluating depth and roster battles.
The NFL preseason opened with rookie quarterbacks and other newcomers getting their first game action, including debuts for the Raiders and Steelers on Friday. Early performances gave teams an initial look at how draft picks and offseason additions might fit before roster cuts.
ESPN reported that Mendoza made his first appearance for Las Vegas, while Allar stood out for Pittsburgh. CBS Sports also highlighted strong showings from rookie passers and said Tennessee quarterback Cam Ward had a difficult outing.
The first week of preseason games is often used to test young players, backup plans and new schemes rather than to settle starting jobs. Coaches across the league will use the next round of exhibition games to compare those early snaps with practice work.
The results come as clubs continue sorting out depth charts ahead of the regular season, with several rookies trying to turn brief preseason chances into larger roles.
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