BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Pittsburgh Steelers closed out their 2026 preseason on Thursday night with a narrow 28–27 loss to the Buffalo Bills inside the newly unveiled Highmark Stadium, a gleaming, wind‑neutral “Taj Mahal” of NFL engineering that lived up to its billing. The game, decided in the final minute, offered both promise and concern as Pittsburgh turns its attention toward the regular‑season opener.
Quarterbacks Split Duties Again
For the third straight week, the Steelers deployed a two‑quarterback approach. Will Howard handled the first half, completing 9 of 15 passes for 69 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. He was sacked three times behind an inconsistent offensive line and was evaluated for a potential head injury following the game.
Protection issues were evident early, raising questions about the unit’s readiness with 42‑year‑old Aaron Rodgers set to take over under center when the Steelers host Atlanta on September 13.
Drew Allar took over in the second half, finishing 9 of 18 for 88 yards. He guided the offense into scoring position multiple times but was unable to complete a late fourth‑down attempt that would have extended Pittsburgh’s final drive.
Offensive Bright Spots Emerge
Despite the loss, several young Steelers delivered standout performances:
Eli Heidenreich powered in a 9‑yard rushing touchdown.
Germie Bernard hauled in a 13‑yard scoring pass from Howard.
Lake McRee added a 5‑yard touchdown reception.
Kaden Wetjen electrified the crowd with a 45‑yard punt return touchdown, the longest play of the night.
Max Hurleman led all receivers with three catches for 50 yards.
Lew Nichols impressed with 40 yards on seven carries, showcasing burst and vision.
Defense Highlights Undrafted Rookie
On the defensive side, Devan Boykin, an undrafted rookie defensive back, led Pittsburgh with nine tackles, continuing a strong preseason campaign that may force coaches to make difficult roster decisions.
The Steelers’ pass rush also found success, sacking Bills quarterback Shane Buechele three times. Julius Welschof, Anthony Goodlow, and Kevin Jobity Jr. each recorded a takedown.
Late Rally Falls Short
Pittsburgh held a 10‑point lead with just over seven minutes remaining, but Buffalo mounted a late surge. Ian Wheeler punched in a 2‑yard touchdown with 1:06 left, and Buechele connected with Dante Pettis on the ensuing two‑point conversion, giving the Bills the decisive margin.
The Steelers’ final drive stalled near midfield, sealing their preseason record at 1–2.
Looking Ahead to Week 1
Pittsburgh now turns its focus to the regular season, where Rodgers will make his anticipated debut in what he has declared his final NFL campaign. The Steelers host the Atlanta Falcons on September 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Acrisure Stadium.
The offensive line’s performance, the backup quarterback battle, and the emergence of several young playmakers will be central storylines as the team prepares for Week 1.
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