Preseason highlights roll in

A look at the key developments from the first weekend of NFL preseason action including Jaxson Dart's debut Travis Hunter's two-way night and a historic 70-yard field goal

Dart shines as Hunter plays both ways and a 70-yard FG makes history

Saturday's preseason slate highlighted a mix of first impressions and small landmarks. Jaxson Dart delivered a confident debut for the Giants, finishing 12 of 19 for 154 yards with a touchdown after stepping in for Russell Wilson. He connected on a long strike to Lil'Jordan Humphrey and showed comfort with rhythm throws, suggesting a path for his development this summer. Cameron Ward started for the Titans and guided a productive early drive, aided by solid protection and accurate short to mid range throws.

Travis Hunter played 19 snaps for the Jaguars, splitting time between offense and defense. He caught two passes for nine yards on offense and drew no targets on defense, signaling Jacksonville plans to ease him into a two-way role. The night also produced a standout moment from Cam Little, whose 70-yard field goal just before halftime stood out as a preseason checkpoint even if the record books treat it differently. Little also made four field goals on the evening, including a couple from long range. J.J. McCarthy returned for the Vikings, going 4 of 7 for 30 yards in his first action since last year’s injury, while the game also showed that several starting quarterbacks did not play a snap this weekend, notably Aaron Rodgers and Dak Prescott.

Eight games filled the Saturday slate, with results that offered a snapshot rather than a verdict. The stories center on youth, opportunity, and the evolving plans coaches have for players who may shape rosters in the weeks ahead.

The weekend exposes a broader NFL trend: teams are leaning into development and role clarity in the early preseason. Dart’s showing matters because it provides a tangible glimpse of his potential in a new system and a ripe coaching environment. It also reinforces the Giants’ willingness to let a young quarterback grow through live reps while managing expectations. Hunter’s dual role with Jacksonville hints at a roster philosophy that values versatility over rigid specialization, a strategy that could pay off if he stays productive on offense while remaining reliable on defense.

Yet preseason is a testing ground with long shadows. A 70-yard kickoff is a striking highlight, but the true test is consistency over multiple games and practices. McCarthy’s return is promising but also reminds us that even healthy returns require time and protection to translate into regular-season play. The absence of certain starters this weekend underscores how teams balance immediate evaluation with long-term plans for depth and health. Overall, the weekend signals a league that is experimenting with identity as much as evaluating talent.

Highlights

The preseason invites patience as teams map the path from camp to meaningful game action.