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Steelers Sit Top Stars for Week 2 Preseason Home Opener

The move prioritizes veteran health by using joint practices as an extended audition for depth players.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers (8) looks to pass as Will Howard (18) waits his turn
Image
Aug 9, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) throws during warm ups before a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Travis Register-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay, Patrick Queen and other established starters will not play against the Buccaneers on Saturday.
  • Pittsburgh will replicate its Week 1 strategy of resting veterans in its lone home exhibition game to limit injury risk before the regular season.
  • Joint practices with Tampa Bay this week will give younger players and fringe roster candidates extra competitive reps ahead of the preseason finale.
  • Tomlin singled out running back Kaleb Johnson as a prospect he wants to see refine his game during the early exhibition stretch.
  • Decisions on veteran participation for the Week 3 preseason game against the Carolina Panthers will be made on a week-by-week basis based on ongoing evaluations.