Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season produced memorable performances, but not all of them were groundbreaking. Some quarterbacks had a forgettable start, with numbers reflecting difficulties in moving the offense or costly mistakes. Based on performance analysis, statistics, and matchday reports, here are the five worst quarterbacks of Week 1, according to data compiled from reliable sources.
Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins) Stats: 114 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, 51.7 rating
Analysis: Tua had one of the worst performances of his career in the 33-8 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. His low yardage, combined with two interceptions, reflected a lack of synchronization with the offense. Criticism was swift, and his performance called into question his ability to lead Miami in a crucial game.
Zach Wilson (New York Giants) Stats: 168 yards, 0 TDs, 59.3 rating
Analysis: In a divisional duel against Washington, Wilson was ineffective. His 168 yards on 37 attempts show a stagnant offense, unable to generate big plays. The lack of touchdowns and a low rating show that the change of scenery from the Jets hasn't been good for him, at least in this debut.
Spencer Rattler (New Orleans Saints) Stats: 214 yards, 0 TDs, 70.4 rating
Analysis: Rattler's official debut as a starter was disappointing. Despite throwing for 214 yards on 43 attempts, he never found rhythm or verticality in the loss to the Arizona Cardinals. His rating reflects his difficulties in moving the offense, which raises questions about his role as QB1 in New Orleans.
Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) Stats: 210 yards, 1 TD, 86.6 rating
Analysis: The rookie showed flashes of talent but couldn't carry the offense in key moments during the home loss to the Minnesota Vikings. While a touchdown pass somewhat glossed over his performance, his lack of consistency and modest yardage keep him on this list.
Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals) Stats: 103 yards, unspecified rating (underperformance)
Analysis: Despite the Bengals' win, Burrow had a disappointing performance, with just 103 passing yards, the fourth-fewest of his career. The offense failed to take advantage of its star receivers, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and their performance fell far short of expectations for one of the league's supposedly best offenses.
Conclusion
Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season showed that even quarterbacks with experience or high expectations can stumble. From rookies like Williams and Rattler, who are still trying to adapt, to veterans like Tagovailoa and Burrow, who fell short of expectations, these players will have to adjust quickly for Week 2.