So far, three quarterbacks have caught the eye of NFL fans and media during this year’s training camp. With preseason around the corner, these signal-callers have been the most impressive through the early stages of camp.
Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts
The former No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 draft has had a lackluster start to his NFL career but has shown flashes of his gaudy potential. Through 15 NFL starts, Richardson has totaled 11 passing touchdowns to 13 interceptions while posting a lowly 50.6% completion rate across two seasons. Along with accuracy, injury has been a major hurdle for the former Florida Gator. A concussion and season-ending shoulder injury limited him to just four games in his rookie year. He also dealt with multiple injuries last season that — along with getting benched — limited him to 11 games.
But through camp so far things are looking up for the third year pro. The Athletic’s James Boyd talked with head coach Shane Steichen who had high praise for Richardson.
“I think everything’s cleaner right now,” Colts coach Shane Steichen said. “He’s playing at a high level. He’s making good decisions with the football, taking the completions when needed. It’s been really good to see.” Boyd also reported that on the day, (Aug. 1) Richardson had gone 14-of-18 in practice with two touchdowns.
This isn’t just coach-speak, either. Richardson himself has said that his footwork has been more consistent, as well as his delivery, per Boyd. Only time will tell if he’s made tangible gains, as he is embroiled in a QB battle with former Giants starter Daniel Jones. With more consistency and continued progress, Richardson could come out on top before Week 1. He’ll get his chance soon, as he’s been named the starter for the Colts’ preseason opener on Thursday against the Baltimore Ravens.
Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland Browns
Sanders arguably has the most to prove in training camp. It seems the former Colorado QB’s larger-than-life persona scared off scouts, which may be one reason he fell to the fifth round in this past draft, despite many analysts projecting him comfortably in the first.
Now, Sanders finds himself in a four-way battle for QB1 in Cleveland, but reports suggest the rookie is holding his own and making a serious case for the starting gig.
According Sports Illustrated’s Jack Carlough, Sanders has been putting up the best numbers in Browns camp.
“While statistics don’t tell the full story in training camp, rookie Shedeur Sanders has put up the best numbers (by far) in the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback competition.”
Carlough notes that in nine practices, Sanders has posted the highest completion percentage (70%) and the most touchdowns (six) — all without throwing a single interception.
Sanders is set to start the Browns’ preseason opener, which will give him a perfect opportunity to prove doubters wrong.
Jalen Milroe, Seattle Seahawks
The former Alabama standout was one of the most polarizing prospects in the 2025 QB class. Much like Richardson, scouts were blown away by Milroe’s athleticism and cannon for an arm. However, his on-field decision-making and consistency raised concerns, leading to a slide into the third round.
While not necessarily in a QB battle, especially with Sam Darnold receiving a $100 million deal from Seattle this offseason, Milroe hasn’t been discouraged. So far, he’s put many of those scouting concerns to bed.
Brian Nemhauser of Hawks Blogger had this to say about Milroe’s progress:
“He’s throwing such a pretty ball right now. I do not have the words to articulate how much of a different player he looks like now than what he looked like in Mobile.”
Milroe, Sanders and Richardson all have plenty to prove, and their first taste of preseason action this weekend will give fans and coaches a chance to see if their hard work in training camp is paying off.
