The 2026 NFL preseason started with a clear message from Pittsburgh. Rookie quarterback Drew Allar didn’t just take snaps; he took control. He threw three touchdowns in the Steelers’ 28-9 win over the Green Bay Packers. This wasn’t a fluke. It was a statement that the future looks bright for the team in the black and gold.
A Rookie Who Reads the Field
Most rookies stumble when they first step into the NFL lights. Allar did the opposite. According to ESPN, he put on a show during the Steelers’ preseason debut on Thursday night. The young quarterback connected with his receivers for scores that looked sharp and precise. He didn’t hesitate. He didn’t force bad throws. He just played the game.
The coaching staff saw what everyone else saw. Allar’s performance suggests he understands the speed of the pro game better than most first-year players. He made reads that took the defense out of position. The Steelers’ offense moved the ball with ease, and Allar was the one calling the shots. This kind of poise is rare for a player in his first uniform.
Steelers Outclass Packers
Green Bay tried to keep up, but the gap was too wide. The Packers managed only nine points while the Steelers rolled to 28. The game wasn’t even close by the time the fourth quarter started. Per ESPN, the rookie class for Pittsburgh made an immediate impact. They didn’t act like they were playing in a warm-up game. They played like they wanted to win.
While other teams in the league are still sorting out their depth charts, Pittsburgh seems to have found a spark. Allar’s three touchdowns were the headline, but the whole unit looked solid. The defense held the Packers in check, and the offense scored whenever they touched the ball. This kind of balance is what teams need to build a winning season.
One game doesn’t make a season, but it does set a tone. The Steelers now have a rookie who looks ready to lead. The next test comes in Week 2 of the preseason. Teams will study Allar’s film and try to find a weakness. They won’t find one easily if he plays like he did on Thursday.
The 2026 season is going to be long and hard for everyone. But for Pittsburgh fans, this first look at Drew Allar gives a reason to feel good. The team beat the Packers 28-9, and the rookie threw three scores.
