NFL Preseason Final Analysis: Struggles for Shedeur Sanders, Breakout Performance from Lions Rookie Standout

Titans' Cameron Ward Shines in Preseason Finale

In the final preseason game of 2025, the Tennessee Titans' rookie quarterback, Cameron Ward, showcased his potential as the team's Week 1 starter. Ward, supported by the Titans' revamped offensive line, led the team on a 13-play, 90-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown.

Ward completed 3 out of 4 passes for 36 yards in his two series during the game, demonstrating poise in the pocket and accuracy in his throws. Brandon Aubrey, the Titans' kicker, added to the team's score with a 64-yard field goal, his only attempt of the game.

Van Jefferson, wide receiver for the Titans, had a strong performance with three catches for 105 yards and a touchdown. His 65-yard touchdown catch and run was a highlight of the game.

Elsewhere, Patrick Mahomes finished 8 out of 13 passes for 143 yards and a touchdown in the final preseason game for the Kansas City Chiefs. Bo Nix completed 10 out of 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown for the Denver Broncos.

The preseason finale featured a mixed bag of teams playing their starters or giving reserves all of the run. Notably, the Buffalo Bills kept Josh Allen out of the final preseason game.

In other notable performances, Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III, Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, and Vikings quarterback Max Bromer all stood out. Milton III improved his decision-making and scored a touchdown pass plus a rushing touchdown, while Dart demonstrated potential as a future franchise QB with 372 yards and three touchdowns over three games. Bromer was a confident passer among backups.

Eagles rookie Jihaad Campbell is expected to start alongside Zack Baun, while Isaac TeSlaa could be the WR3 on the Detroit Lions depth chart by the end of the season. However, Detroit's starters did not play in the final preseason game.

Jake Elliott went 3 out of 3 on field goal attempts for the Titans, including kicks of 40+ yards. Mazi Smith, defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, had impactful tackles, and Shedeur Sanders, quarterback for the Detroit Lions, struggled, with three out of six passes for 14 yards and five sacks in the final preseason game. Sanders' lackluster performance may impact his chances of making the opening 53-man roster.

NFL Preseason Final Analysis: Struggles for Shedeur Sanders, Breakout Performance from Lions Rookie Standout