Happy Monday! It’s Austin filling in for Zach as we inch closer to the onset of football season. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

This article reflects the CBS Sports HQ AM Newsletter content, the ultimate sports guide for every weekday morning. You can sign up here.

HIGH-PROFILE ROOKIE QBS

The first weekend of NFL preseason games is in the books, giving rookies their first taste of professional life. Despite the skepticism surrounding the 2025 quarterback class, several players seized their chances. Notably, Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders shone brightly.

Tyler Sullivan assessed each rookie quarterback’s performance, with Dart and Sanders taking the top honors. Dart, in relief of starter Russell Wilson, showed his skills.

Dart’s Performance:

“In all, Dart was in the driver’s seat for three scoring drives on his four first-half possessions. Dart looked comfortable in the pocket, made tight window throws, and when pressure mounted, he displayed his mobility with 24 rushing yards.”

Perhaps the weekend’s most surprising performance came from Sanders, buried at fourth on the depth chart during training camp. Cody Benjamin detailed his experience here.

“Yes, it’s preseason. Yes, it’s early. But Sanders demonstrated the poise and downfield vision expected of an NFL passer. His position on the 2025 roster is now safe.”

Other notable rookies, including No. 1 pick Cameron Ward and J.J. McCarthy, had decent but brief appearances in their debut. Notable rookie QB stats include:

• Jaxson Dart (NYG): 12/19, 154 passing yards, 1 TD, 24 rushing yards
• Shedeur Sanders (CLE): 14/23, 138 passing yards, 2 TDs, 19 rushing yards
• Jalen Milroe (SEA): 6/10, 61 passing yards, 38 rushing yards
• Cameron Ward (TEN): 5/8, 67 passing yards
• J.J. McCarthy (MIN): 4/7, 30 passing yards, 8 rushing yards

Noteworthy Debut

Travis Hunter, a two-way star for the Jaguars, also made a splash, playing 11 snaps on offense and catching both of his targets for nine yards, alongside eight snaps on defense.

For more highlights from the week, check out the takeaways here.

Brewers Stay Strong

The Brewers, meanwhile, made headlines when they came back from a 5-0 deficit against the Mets to win 7-5, marking their ninth consecutive victory. They maintain their top position in the latest MLB Power Rankings.

To recall the rankings:

1. Brewers (previous: 1)
2. Phillies (5)
3. Dodgers (3)
4. Blue Jays (4)
5. Padres (7)

Further details and insights from Matt Snyder on this remarkable streak can be found in his latest article.