Quarterback Battles Heating Up in NFL Preseason
The NFL preseason isn’t just a warm-up — it’s the proving ground for the league’s most pivotal position: quarterback. With a mix of rookies eager to claim their spot and veterans looking to hang on, 2025’s QB competitions are shaping up to be some of the most compelling in years.
Here’s a breakdown of the biggest quarterback battles this preseason, and why every snap matters.
Denver Broncos: Bo Nix vs. Jarrett Stidham
The Sean Payton era in Denver centers on one question: Who leads the offense in Week 1?
- Bo Nix, the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is Payton’s handpicked quarterback. He’s praised for his poise, accuracy, and command of pro-style systems.
- Jarrett Stidham has two years in the system and offers a steady, if unspectacular, veteran presence.
What to Watch: Nix’s ability to handle pressure and digest the playbook will determine whether he starts immediately or waits behind Stidham.
New England Patriots: Drake Maye vs. Joshua Dobbs
After selecting Drake Maye third overall in 2025, the Patriots signaled the start of a new era. But they also brought in veteran Joshua Dobbs for insurance, while moving on from Joe Milton III.
- Drake Maye has the physical tools and franchise expectations.
- Joshua Dobbs knows how to manage games and help stabilize young offenses.
What to Watch: If Maye shows command early, the Patriots may skip the waiting game and start him in Week 1.
Minnesota Vikings: J.J. McCarthy vs. Sam Howell
With Kirk Cousins gone and Sam Darnold elsewhere, Minnesota’s QB battle is between youth and upside.
- J.J. McCarthy, the 2024 first-round pick, enters 2025 healthy and ready after a developmental rookie year.
- Sam Howell, acquired during the 2025 Draft, brings some starting experience from Washington.
What to Watch: The job is McCarthy’s to lose. But if he struggles early, Howell could push for playing time.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Aaron Rodgers vs. Justin Fields (and Russell Wilson)
The most dramatic quarterback room of the preseason belongs to Pittsburgh. The Steelers signed Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal worth up to $19.5 million, shaking up a room that already included Justin Fields and Russell Wilson.
- Aaron Rodgers is expected to start if healthy, bringing Hall of Fame pedigree and a win-now mentality.
- Justin Fields still offers long-term upside and could take over if Rodgers falters.
- Russell Wilson may now be the odd man out — he could be traded or cut depending on preseason performance.
What to Watch: Fields will get extended preseason reps. Rodgers likely won’t play much, but all signs point to him leading the team in Week 1 — unless Fields forces the issue.
Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels vs. Marcus Mariota
No longer just a rookie — Jayden Daniels is coming off a Pro Bowl season and is now entrenched as Washington’s franchise quarterback.
- Jayden Daniels, the 2023 Heisman winner, became the first Washington QB to make a Pro Bowl since RGIII in 2012.
- Marcus Mariota is a trusted backup and mentor, earning praise for his leadership and reliability.
What to Watch: Daniels is firmly in control of the starting job, but Mariota remains one of the league’s most capable backups — and could see time if injuries or pass protection become issues.
Why These Battles Matter
Quarterback decisions drive playoff projections, fantasy rankings, and franchise narratives. Teams like Houston soared in 2024 because they got it right at QB. Others are hoping to do the same this year.
When to Watch
- Hall of Fame Game: August 1-6 — Chargers vs. Lions
- Full Preseason: August 9–23 — most key decisions are made after the second game
- Final Roster Cuts: August 27 — rosters drop from 90 to 53
Final Thoughts
From Rodgers’s comeback to McCarthy’s debut, the 2025 NFL preseason is packed with quarterback intrigue. These battles will shape not just Week 1 depth charts, but the direction of entire franchises.
Bookmark this page — we’ll update it as camps progress and QB hierarchies take shape. Even better? Visit trustnbet.com homepage for more interesting updates!
