Rookie Quarterbacks and Running Backs Define NFL Preseason Opener
Fernando Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love, and Drew Allar showcase skills in Week 1 action, while Kansas City’s star quarterback rests ahead of the regular season.
The 2026 NFL preseason commenced on Thursday, providing the first on-field evaluation for top rookies and new franchise additions. The opening round offered critical data for coaching staffs assessing depth charts ahead of the regular season, with particular focus on quarterback performances and defensive adjustments.
Las Vegas Raiders’ number one overall pick Fernando Mendoza made his debut against the Arizona Cardinals, completing 10 of 16 passes for 96 yards and one touchdown. Mendoza entered the game on the second drive after veteran Kirk Cousins was pulled, leading a scoring drive on his second possession with a 6-yard touchdown pass to Jack Bech.
Arizona Cardinals’ number three pick Jeremiyah Love recorded 14 touches for 73 total yards. Love split backfield work with Tyler Allgier in the first half and made standout plays, including hurdling a defender. He contributed to three Cardinals scoring drives, including a 9-yard gain to convert on third down.
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie Drew Allar completed 10 of 13 passes for 154 yards and two touchdowns, including a 74-yard slant, in a 28-9 victory over the Green Bay Packers. Allar’s highlight came on his first throw, and he also scored a rushing touchdown. He joins Mason Rudolph and Will Howard in a battle for the backup role behind Aaron Rodgers.
Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes sat out the team’s preseason opener. The two-time NFL MVP could be on the verge of missing preseason action for the first time in his career, as the team begins its evaluation period without its star player on the field.
