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NFL today coverage is dominated by eye-catching rookie performances, quarterback auditions and early roster battles as the 2026 preseason enters its opening weekend. Thursdayâs games introduced several first-year players to professional football, while Fridayâs action added three more contests and provided valuable clues about which newcomers could make an immediate impact.
Explosive NFL Today Takeaways From Preseason Week 1
The Pittsburgh Steelers delivered one of the most convincing rookie showings of the week in a 28-9 victory over the Green Bay Packers. Quarterback Drew Allar led three touchdown drives during his first appearance, displaying poise and playmaking ability throughout the second half.
Allar connected with fourth-round receiver Kaden Wetjen for a spectacular 74-yard catch-and-run before scoring on a three-yard read-option keeper. The pair later combined for a five-yard touchdown, and Allar added another scoring pass to fullback Riley Nowakowski. He was supported by Germie Bernard, who produced a 25-yard catch-and-run, while defensive end Gabriel Rubio recorded six tackles.
Fernando Mendoza Shows Resilience for Las Vegas
The Raidersâ quarterback competition also took center stage. Veteran Kirk Cousins opened the game and guided Las Vegas on a 68-yard touchdown drive, completing five of six passes for 50 yards. However, first-round pick Fernando Mendoza provided the nightâs more intriguing storyline.
Mendoza struggled during his first possession but settled down quickly. He completed a 19-yard throw to Malik Benson, helped create a long run by Mike Washington Jr. and later found Jack Bech for a six-yard touchdown. Mendoza finished 10-for-16 for 97 yards and put the Raiders in field-goal range on his final drive. His performance was less effective under pressure, an area coaches will monitor closely in the coming weeks.
Rookie Quarterbacks Create Immediate Buzz
For the New York Jets, fourth-round quarterback Cade Klubnik unexpectedly started after Geno Smith was held out with a sore ankle. Klubnik guided the starting offense to both a field goal and a touchdown in only two series during the Jetsâ 24-16 loss to Tampa Bay. He completed five of seven passes for 56 yards and converted two important third downs with Garrett Wilson.
The brief appearance strengthened Klubnikâs case for the backup job, although the limited workload left questions about how he would perform over a longer stretch. Jets edge rusher David Bailey, the teamâs second pick, recorded one tackle and one quarterback pressure, while first-round receiver Omar Cooper Jr. made a 26-yard catch.
In Atlanta, Tua Tagovailoaâs first start with the Falcons was far less encouraging. He completed three of five attempts for 22 yards, with all four of his targets going to tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. The Falcons eventually fell 27-7 to Denver after Cooper Rush threw two interceptions, including a 96-yard pick-six by Jahdae Barron.
Powerful Rookie Performances Across the NFL
Arizonaâs third overall pick, Jeremiyah Love, looked sharp in the Cardinalsâ 27-14 win over the Raiders. He rushed 11 times for 58 yards, averaging 5.3 yards per carry, and added three receptions. His quick feet, balance and physical running style immediately stood out.
San Francisco also found a promising young playmaker. Second-round receiver DeâZhaun Stribling caught seven passes for 62 yards against Tennessee, including a 32-yard over-the-shoulder reception. Defensive tackle Gracen Halton added a strong showing with a run stop and a near-sack.
Washingtonâs undrafted running back Robert Henry Jr. produced one of Fridayâs biggest surprises. He rushed for 75 yards and a touchdown on only 12 carries, showing burst and vision in narrow running lanes. Washingtonâs Kaytron Allen also impressed with 85 yards and a score on 23 attempts.
Miami receiver Caleb Douglas made a memorable one-handed, 28-yard catch despite defensive pass interference. Quarterback Malik Willis was efficient in his only series, completing four of five passes during a 93-yard touchdown drive.
Injuries and Roster Questions Emerging
Not every preseason development was positive. Arizona second-round offensive lineman Chase Bisontis left with a knee injury and did not return. His status will be important as the Cardinals evaluate their offensive line depth.
Detroitâs quarterback competition also remains unsettled. Undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer started after Teddy Bridgewaterâs sudden retirement and completed 13 of 21 passes for 130 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Veteran Joshua Dobbs later entered the game as the Lions assess their No. 2 quarterback role.
As reported by ESPNâs NFL Nation, the opening week offered useful but incomplete evidence. Preseason statistics rarely predict regular-season success, yet early performances can influence playing time, depth charts and roster decisions. The next round of games will provide another opportunity for rookies and veterans to separate themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Today
Who was the standout rookie quarterback in Week 1?
Drew Allar made the strongest statistical impression, throwing or running for three touchdowns in Pittsburghâs win over Green Bay.
How did Fernando Mendoza perform in his Raiders debut?
Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown. He showed resilience but struggled when facing heavy pressure.
Which rookie running backs impressed?
Jeremiyah Love, Robert Henry Jr., Kaytron Allen and Jonah Coleman all showed burst, vision or physicality during their preseason appearances.
What injury emerged during the games?
Cardinals offensive lineman Chase Bisontis left with a knee injury and did not return. Further evaluation will determine the seriousness of the injury.
