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Preseason Week 2 Showcases Rookies and Backup QBs Driving Roster Decisions

Limited starter snaps during the Aug. 16–17 slate shifted the spotlight to young players reshaping final roster evaluations.

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Philadelphia Eagles safety Andrew Mukuba (24) recovers a fumble against the Cleveland Browns during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field.
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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 16: Efton Chism III #86 of the New England Patriots celebrates after a first down reception during the second quarter of the NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 16, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Overview

  • Five second-week exhibitions yielded wins for the Giants (31-12), Patriots (20-12), Packers (23-19), Dolphins (24-17) and Titans (23-20), extending momentum into final joint practices and the preseason finale.
  • Giants rookie Jaxson Dart completed 14 of 16 passes for 137 yards and added a rushing touchdown in his MetLife Stadium debut to strengthen his case for a practice-squad role.
  • In Green Bay’s 23-19 comeback, Canadian rookie Taylor Elgersma went 7 of 11 for 109 yards and Sean Clifford capped the rally with an 11-yard touchdown run as both vie for a roster spot.
  • Seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers threw two third-quarter TD passes for the Dolphins in their 24-17 win over Detroit, joining Zach Wilson and Kyle Allen in Miami’s ongoing QB depth evaluation.
  • New England rookies TreVeyon Henderson and Efton Chism III each scored in the Patriots’ victory over Minnesota and Titans defensive back Kendell Brooks returned an interception 53 yards for a touchdown.