The Green Bay Packers are set to begin their preseason schedule with an away game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team traveled to Pittsburgh on August 12, 2026, in anticipation of the matchup. This game marks the start of a preseason that is generating considerable interest due to numerous storylines and players to observe.
Head coach Matt LaFleur has indicated that the team’s starters will participate in the initial snaps of the game before being withdrawn. This approach provides flexibility for the remainder of the preseason and training camp. The Steelers, in contrast, have confirmed that most of their starters will not be playing in this opening preseason contest.
Key Players and Position Battles
One player drawing significant attention is MarShawn Lloyd, who has shown promise and remained healthy through spring and summer training. His performance in the upcoming games, including the one in Pittsburgh, and later in Denver and Minneapolis, will be closely watched. Another player aiming to secure a roster spot is Pierre Strong Jr., a former fourth-round pick, who is expected to demonstrate his capabilities when given the opportunity.
The competition for roster spots, particularly among wide receivers, often hinges on contributions to special teams. Players positioned as the fifth, sixth, or seventh wide receiver on the depth chart must excel in special teams to earn a place on the 53-man roster. This emphasis on special teams play has been a consistent factor over many seasons.
The defensive unit is also a focal point, particularly regarding its blitzing strategy. While it may not involve sending five or six players on every down, the defense is expected to maintain an aggressive approach. The cornerback group has seen recent changes, with Johnathan Baldwin on injured reserve due to a knee injury. Kitan Oladapo is currently taking reps at nickel cornerback and is expected to start there. Kamal Hadden has also joined this rotation, and Keisean Nixon provides an additional option for playing inside.
Quarterback Situations and Preseason Strategy
The quarterback position for the Packers also presents several questions. Kyle McCord and Kyron Drones have both had notable moments during camp. McCord, as the more experienced player, is anticipated to get the initial opportunity, consistent with past preseason strategies. The team has the option to rotate quarterbacks series-by-series if desired, given that there are no gameday roster limits in the preseason.
The idea of incorporating red jerseys for quarterbacks during preseason games, similar to joint practices, has been discussed as a potential measure to protect these valuable players. This could involve allowing starting quarterbacks to wear a red jersey during the first quarter, though this remains a speculative concept.
For the Steelers, the playing time for backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor is a consideration. The Arizona Cardinals have already played a preseason game, the Hall of Fame Game, where Carson Beck started and performed well, completing 15-for-19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown. The Raiders will feature Fernando Mendoza, their top draft pick, who is expected to play a significant amount of time, potentially a full quarter or two.
The Packers‘ preseason opener against the Steelers will begin to provide answers to many of these ongoing questions.
Source: packers.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.