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NFL.com breaks down what you need to know from Week 1 of the 2025 NFL preseason. Catch up on each game’s biggest takeaways using the links below:
Miami Dolphins 24, Chicago Bears 24
Michael Baca’s takeaways:
All three Dolphins quarterbacks see action. Appearing for the first time in the preseason since the 2021 season, Tua Tagovailoa completed all but one of his six pass attempts for 27 yards and converted a fourth-and-3 with a throw on the outside to lead the Dolphins into the red zone a 15-play drive. While Miami’s rushing attack couldn’t punch in the scoring opportunity, the Dolphins offensive line left the quarterback virtually untouched in his lone series. Zach Wilson was sacked four times, however, making it a hectic Dolphins debut but the QB did lead consecutive TD drives. Rookie Quinn Ewers ended the preseason opener with a rough outing, completing just 5-of-18 passes for 92 yards and losing a fumble on a strip sack that positioned the Bears for an easy score in the third quarter. Running back Ollie Gordon II led the team in rushing (33 yards) and nearly did so receiving as well (39 yards).
Bears getting acclimated to new systems. The introduction of Ben Johnson’s offense got off to a slow start with Tyson Bagent at the helm, but after going three-and-out on their first two series came a nice 16-play, 94-yard drive that ended with a Maurice Alexander touchdown reception. Rookies Colston Loveland (8-yard reception) and Luther Burden III (two catches, 29 yards) saw their first NFL touches along the way, but poor protection for Bagent (sacked twice; interception off tipped ball) left plenty to be desired from new head coach’s first impression. Defensively, however, Dennis Allen’s unit enjoyed a sack party and second-year pass rusher Austin Booker led the charge with three sacks and a forced fumble that led to Chicago’s first lead. Collecting six total sacks, the Bears defense also brought the most meaningful moment of the game, holding Miami’s best-available offense out of the end zone on their first series. Third-year linebacker Noah Sewell forced the turnover on downs with a big tackle for a three-yard loss on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line. The younger brother of Penei Sewell , Noah finished with six tackles and forced a fumble in what was an impactful preseason debut.
Analysis from Christian Gonzales to come.