With as small of a sample size as possible, we now have a smidgeon of film to go off of in terms of rookie QBs. Who played the best? What, if anything, does this action show us?

It’s the time of year where every fanbase is clamoring to see their new players, both free agents and draft selections. That is preseason, of course. It starts with training camp clips that convince everyone that their team is winning it all and their QB is winning MVP. Now, we have seen the first game action of the preseason, and perhaps the biggest storyline is the rookie signal callers taking their first “real” NFL game reps.

Today, I will focus on the six first round rookie QBs. Some played a lot, some played a moderate amount, and some saw just a drive or two. While every fanbase will find things to be positive about, it is important to temper expectations with these passers and to expect growing pains. While some of these guys will become stars in this league, it won’t be because of preseason rookie action. However, one thing we can say is that preseason shows that football is right around the corner.

One drive guys

Drake Maye: For the third overall pick, there wasn’t much to evaluate. Maye threw three passes, two of which were completed, and one of which was dropped. Maye is said to be getting more action this week against the Eagles, after reports stated he has looked good early on in joint practices against Philly.

Jayden Daniels: Daniels, like Maye, went 2/3 passing, and displayed his deep ball with a perfect strike down the right sideline to Dyami Brown. He added on a rushing touchdown on a keeper, and all in all looked promising from his sole drive against the Jets.

Multiple Drives

Caleb Williams: The first overall pick made his much-anticipated debut under center for the Chicago Bears in Orchard Park against the Bills. In two drives, Williams amassed just under 100 yards, and displayed his elite velocity and play extension. One thing to watch for Williams will be how long he holds onto the ball, something he struggled with at times in his college career and on Saturday.

Michael Penix Jr: The scrutinized Falcons rookie took the majority of first half reps in Miami, and was less than stellar. Penix did not look comfortable in the pocket, and missed some easy throws, but also had a handful of very nice ones, including one with great touch down the right sideline.

Lengthy Reps

Bo Nix: Many stated the great level of play that Nix displayed on Sunday in Indianapolis, but it was a fairly vanilla performance overall. Nix had an ADOT (Average depth of target) of 7.4 yards. Nix played mainly within structure and threw underneath. His struggles came when trying to push the ball down the field, with his deep ball falling short multiple times. Nix and the Broncos relied on a lot of RPO usage against heavy box looks from the Colts.

JJ McCarthy: The news of McCarthy’s injury today is even more disappointing when you consider how well he played in the Vikings first preseason game. McCarthy bounced back from an early interception with two touchdowns, including a deep ball down the left side for six. The Michigan alum showcased his athleticism and mobility, as well as precision and velocity on his throws. The Vikings await news, hopefully of the good variety, when it comes to McCarthy’s knee.