Let's dive into the winners and losers of the highly anticipated preseason opener between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Green Bay Packers. This game offered a glimpse into the future of these teams, and there were some standout performances and areas of concern that deserve our attention.
Winners
Asante Samuel Jr.: The Clamps Cornerback
Asante Samuel Jr. had a stellar night, showcasing his ball skills and coverage abilities. His ability to break up passes and get his head around quickly is a testament to his talent. Samuel is not just depth; he's a potential game-changer with his sub-package role. His performance against the Packers was a clear indicator of his potential impact this season.
Germie Bernard: The Gamers' Spirit
Germie Bernard proved that he's a true gamer, coming alive in the stadium atmosphere. His feel for zone coverage, reliable hands, and strength on display were impressive. Bernard generated a lot of buzz with his performance, and his YAC (yards after catch) ability is a valuable asset for the Steelers.
Will Howard: A Promising Debut
Will Howard's first in-stadium action since 2025 was a success. He showed touch and accuracy in the two-minute drill, almost leading the team to a touchdown. Howard met the key moments, completing passes and displaying his ability to climb into the pocket. Despite a risky throw, the positives outweighed the negatives, and his debut was a positive step forward.
Lew Nichols: Hard-Charging Running Back
Lew Nichols continued his hard-charging style of play, pushing the pile and gaining yards after contact. He converted a key fourth down and showed good awareness on a designed inside run. Nichols' performance against the Packers suggests he could be a strong contender for a spot on the 53-man roster.
Kaden Wetjen: Return Man Extraordinaire
Kaden Wetjen had an outstanding night, both as a receiver and a return specialist. His long catch-and-run and ability to break tackles were impressive. Wetjen's talent as a return man was on full display, and he showed why the team drafted him early. His performance was a bright spot in an otherwise sloppy game.
Drew Allar: Shining in the Spotlight
Drew Allar followed Howard's lead with a strong performance. His first completion was a beauty, and he finished the drive with a touchdown. Allar's timing and accuracy were impressive, and he answered some concerns about his college tape. His performance, along with Howard's, gives the Steelers a promising outlook at the quarterback position.
Daylen Everette: A Quietly Impressive Rookie
Daylen Everette had a solid, if not flashy, performance. He held his own in coverage and was competitive throughout the game. Everette's ability to fit into the defense and make plays is a positive sign for the Steelers' rookie class, which had an impressive showing overall.
Losers
Discipline and Penalties: A Sloppy Display
The Steelers' performance was marred by a lack of discipline, with 11 penalties for 143 yards. This sloppy play carried over from training camp, and even team owner Art Rooney II expressed frustration. The penalties came from all areas of the team, and it's an issue that needs immediate attention.
Kaleb Johnson: Losing Ground
Kaleb Johnson's lack of offensive snaps and touches in the first half is a concern. He struggled to gain yards when he did get the ball, and his performance suggests he may not fit into Mike McCarthy's scheme. Johnson's chances of making the 53-man roster seem slim, and a trade or release later this month is a distinct possibility.
Troy Fautanu: Rust and Pressure
Troy Fautanu had a rough night, allowing pressure and picking up penalties. While there were mitigating circumstances, Fautanu's performance suggests he may still be adjusting to his position shift. He'll need to have better days ahead to solidify his spot on the team.
Deeper Analysis
The Steelers' performance in this preseason opener highlights the team's potential and areas that need improvement. The rookie class, particularly the defensive players, showed promise, which is a positive sign for the future. However, the discipline issues and sloppy play are a cause for concern and something the team must address quickly.
Conclusion
This game provided an intriguing glimpse into the Steelers' and Packers' rosters. While there were standout performances, the lack of discipline and penalties overshadowed the positives. The Steelers must focus on cleaning up their play if they want to have a successful season. As for the winners, their performances give us a glimpse of the talent and potential that could shape the future of these teams.
