The NFL preseason is often a time for veterans to ease back into action and for coaches to evaluate depth. But this year, a trio of rookies is stealing the spotlight, showing that they're not just here to learn — they're here to compete.
De'Zhaun Stribling Silences the Doubters
When the San Francisco 49ers selected De'Zhaun Stribling with the 33rd overall pick, the decision was met with skepticism. Critics questioned the value of taking the Ole Miss speedster so high. After two preseason games, those critics are eating their words.
Stribling has been a revelation. In his debut, he hauled in seven passes for 63 yards. He followed that up with four catches for 46 yards against the Tennessee Titans, working with the first-team offense and quarterback Brock Purdy in the opening quarter.
With Ricky Pearsall sidelined for the season, Stribling is poised to play a pivotal role in the 49ers' passing attack. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches has already turned heads, and he's quickly becoming a favorite target of Purdy.
Drew Allar Shows Why He Was a Top Prospect
Drew Allar's path to the NFL was unconventional. Once considered a potential first-round pick, he slid to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 76 overall. But Allar is using that as motivation.
In his preseason debut against the Green Bay Packers, Allar was nearly flawless, completing 10 of 13 passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing score, showcasing the dual-threat ability that made him a coveted prospect.
“It's a huge confidence boost, but I think I came into the game confident just because of the preparation and everything that has gone on in the last two weeks down in Latrobe,” Allar said, via ESPN. “Coach McCarthy and the whole offensive staff put together a really concise game plan … just calling stuff that they know I'm comfortable with and just allowing us to go out and play fast. I feel like they did a great job of putting me in a position to go out and be successful.”
While Allar isn't expected to start this season, his performance suggests the Steelers may have found their quarterback of the future. He's learning behind a veteran and showing the poise and accuracy that could make him a star.
Ty Simpson Looks Like the Real Deal
When the Los Angeles Rams drafted Ty Simpson from Alabama, some fans wondered if head coach Sean McVay was fully on board. After Simpson's preseason debut, those doubts are evaporating.
Simpson was outstanding, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns against the Kansas City Chiefs. His accuracy and decision-making were on full display, and he looked comfortable running McVay's offense.
Simpson has the luxury of learning behind Matthew Stafford, one of the best in the game. If he continues to develop at this pace, the Rams could have a seamless transition at quarterback in 2027 and beyond.
These three rookies are not just participating in preseason games — they're making statements. As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on them to see if they can carry this momentum forward. For now, they're putting the NFL on notice: the future is now.
