The Pittsburgh Steelers' preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers showcased a mix of promising performances and areas for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the winners and losers from the game, with a heavy emphasis on personal commentary and analysis.
Winners
Asante Samuel Jr.: Clamps and Ball Skills
Asante Samuel Jr. lived up to his reputation as a ball-hawking cornerback. His performance mirrored his strong play throughout the summer, breaking up two passes, including a slot fade on third down. Samuel's ability to get his head around and make plays on the ball is a testament to his ball-skills and sub-package role potential. He's not just excellent depth; he's a key contributor to the team's success.
Germie Bernard: Gamers Come Alive
Germie Bernard, who hadn't had an inspiring training camp, showed his true colors once he stepped onto the field. He displayed a good feel for zone coverage, reliable hands, and strength with multiple broken tackles. Bernard's performance generated a lot more buzz than his previous outings, proving that gamers can rise to the occasion.
Will Howard: Touch and Accuracy
Quarterback Will Howard's first in-stadium action since January 2025 was a positive debut. He demonstrated touch and accuracy on layered throws, marching the Steelers downfield with precision. Howard's performance in the two-minute drill was particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to lead the team downfield and make crucial throws. While he faced a risky third-down throw in the second half, his overall performance was strong.
Lew Nichols: Hard-Charging Running Back
Lew Nichols continues to showcase his hard-charging brand of football. He pushes the pile forward, gets yards after contact, and keeps his legs going on key fourth-down conversions. Nichols' performance, despite a touchdown run being called back due to a hold, solidifies his position as a contender for the 53-man roster.
Ben Skowronek & Robert Tonyan: Key Catches
Wide receiver Ben Skowronek and tight end Robert Tonyan made crucial catches. Skowronek's early third-down conversion and fourth-down catch showcased his reliability. Tonyan's ability to get open and secure Howard's throws is a positive sign for his roster spot. Their contributions on special teams further solidify their roles.
Yahya Black & Gabiel Rubio: Solid Run Defense
Defensive linemen Yahya Black and Gabiel Rubio played solid run defense, forcing the Packers' runner to jump to his right and two-gapping to take away the inside lane. Rubio's downfield tackle in the second half demonstrated his versatility. Their performances, combined with the All-22 footage, will provide valuable insights into their potential roles.
Kaden Wetjen: Top Return Man
Kaden Wetjen, drafted as college football's top return man, flashed his talent with multiple tackles on kick and punt returns. His long catch and run on QB Drew Allar's first pass showcased his ability to turn on the jets and create big plays. Wetjen's performance sets the stage for a potential impact role on special teams.
Drew Allar: Timing and Accuracy
Quarterback Drew Allar's performance was impressive, showcasing his timing and accuracy in the short and intermediate game. His first completion nearly resulted in a touchdown, and he finished the drive with a read/option keeper. Allar's ability to connect with receivers like Max Hurleman and Wetjen, and his strong performance overall, begins to address concerns from his college tape.
Daylen Everette: Competitive Coverage
Cornerback Daylen Everette held his own, filling and fitting the run and being competitive in coverage. His performance, combined with the overall rookie class, suggests a promising future for the team's defensive backfield.
Jamin Davis: Positive Plays
EDGE Jamin Davis, despite being miscast as an outside linebacker, made positive plays. He defended the boot game well, made a tackle in the flat, and picked up a sack in the fourth quarter. While he's not on track to make the 53-man roster, his contributions are notable.
Losers
Discipline & Penalties: Sloppy Mistakes
The Steelers' discipline and penalties were a significant issue, with 11 penalties for 143 yards. False starts, late hits, and special teams penalties, including an unnecessary roughness call on Ben Skowronek, frustrated Art Rooney II. The team needs to clean up these mistakes to improve their performance.
Kaleb Johnson: Lost Ground
Running back Kaleb Johnson's lack of involvement in the first half, despite other running backs sitting out, is concerning. He didn't carry the ball until late in the third quarter, and when he did, yards didn't follow. Johnson's performance suggests he's lost ground and may not fit Mike McCarthy's scheme, potentially leading to a trade or cut.
Troy Fautanu: Knocking Off Rust
Offensive tackle Troy Fautanu didn't have his best game, allowing pressure and picking up penalties. While there's context for some of the issues, his performance as he shifts back to left tackle after playing right tackle is a concern. Fautanu needs to improve and show better days ahead.
Takeaway
The Steelers' preseason opener revealed a mix of promising performances and areas for improvement. While the team showed potential in several areas, the discipline and penalties, as well as the performance of certain players, need attention. The upcoming games will be crucial in assessing the team's progress and identifying areas for further development.
