NFL Preseason Week 2: Rookie quarterback evaluations reveal stark contrast in performance
While top prospect Fernando Mendoza struggled in his debut, undrafted free agents and backup quarterbacks delivered decisive performances during the second week of the NFL preseason.
The second week of the 2026 NFL preseason provided a critical evaluation period for fifteen rookie quarterbacks, highlighting a significant disparity between the top draft prospect and several undrafted free agents. According to a performance review by CBS Sports, the week served as a litmus test for players seeking to secure roster spots or establish themselves as viable depth options for the upcoming regular season.
Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, delivered a lackluster debut in his first professional start. The rookie completed eight of 15 passes for 86 yards and threw an 80-yard pick-six on the team’s opening possession. Despite the rough outing, which also included a sack for an 11-yard loss, analysts noted that Las Vegas has no reason to rush the young quarterback into the lineup, as the preseason is not intended to define his long-term trajectory.
In contrast, Jalon Daniels of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers orchestrated a comeback victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Entering the second half with a 9-0 deficit, Daniels led three scoring drives to lift the Buccaneers to a one-point win. The undrafted free agent remains sackless through two games and added 19 rushing yards, solidifying his status as a key depth piece for Tampa Bay.
Other notable performances included Jack Strand of the Atlanta Falcons, who recorded 212 passing yards and two touchdowns in a victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Strand, who went undrafted out of Division II Minnesota State–Moorhead, demonstrated dual-threat capabilities with 22 rushing yards on nine carries, differentiating himself in the battle for the team’s third quarterback role.
Behren Morton of the New England Patriots also delivered a decisive performance, throwing a 37-yard game-winning touchdown pass to Nick DeGennaro in the final minute of a 24-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Morton finished the game 13-for-17 for 129 yards, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure during the second half.
The week also saw strong showings from other undrafted players, including Joey Aguilar and Joe Fagnano, who used their performances to bolster their chances of making their respective rosters. These evaluations underscore the importance of preseason action in determining which first-year quarterbacks can carve out meaningful roles in the professional league.
