Preseason Games Acquire Significance for Bengals, Colts, Jaguars, and Vikings in the NFL
NFL Starters Return to Preseason Action for Enhanced Preparation
After several years of abstaining from preseason games to minimize injury risks and preserve health for the regular season, NFL teams have started to bring back starters to the field. This shift is a strategic decision aimed at blending starters’ workload with preparation needs, especially given evolving roster dynamics and new coaching philosophies in 2025.
In the recent past, starters were primarily excluded from preseason games due to the risk of injuries. However, in the 2025 season, some starters have played limited snaps, providing them with meaningful game reps to evaluate their readiness and adjust to the game speed. This partial return to preseason play allows starters to shake off rust and potentially improve their initial regular-season performance without the full pressure of regular-season stakes.
One such example is Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback, who started in the team’s opening preseason game against the Eagles. Burrow completed 9 of 10 passes for 123 yards with two touchdowns, demonstrating his readiness for the upcoming season. Burrow also expressed his satisfaction with the game, stating that it was a good start and good to play football again.
Another notable returnee is J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings second-year quarterback, who made his comeback to U.S. Bank Stadium after tearing his meniscus in 2024. McCarthy played the first series against the Houston Texans, completing 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards and running one time for eight yards, providing valuable game reps for the young quarterback.
Preseason games also offer an opportunity for injury risk management. Limited but live reps help gauge a player’s health status, keeping injury risks lower than full game participation would. For instance, Cam Little, second-year placekicker for the Jaguars, made a 70-yard field goal just before halftime against the Steelers. While Little’s kick won’t be in the record book because it is a preseason accomplishment, it demonstrated his leg strength and consistency, providing valuable insights for the team.
Moreover, preseason games help teams make better-informed decisions on backups and depth chart positions. In the Indianapolis Colts, for example, Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson are in a major quarterback battle. Their performances in preseason games will play a crucial role in determining the starting quarterback for the regular season.
In a surprising twist, rookie Travis Hunter made his preseason debut for the Jacksonville Jaguars, playing both offense and defense. His debut marks a significant milestone for the young player, providing him with valuable game experience and an opportunity to showcase his skills.
In conclusion, the return of starters to preseason games has provided teams with a valuable opportunity to evaluate their players’ readiness, manage injury risks, and make informed decisions on their rosters. This measured participation can improve early-season readiness and provide coaches with crucial team insights.
In the NFL 2025 season, starters like Joe Burrow of the Bengals and J.J. McCarthy from the Vikings have returned to preseason games for improved preparations, showcasing their readiness for the upcoming season while gaining meaningful game reps (football, NFL, American-football). Moreover, preseason games offer a platform for rookies, such as Travis Hunter, to make their debuts and showcase their skills, as seen with his performance for the Jaguars (sports, football).
