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Steelers fans have another opportunity to evaluate Pittsburgh’s young quarterbacks Friday night as the team hosts the New York Jets in its second preseason game. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Acrisure Stadium, where the Steelers will continue preparing for the regular season under new head coach Mike McCarthy.
The matchup comes after an impressive preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers. Pittsburgh defeated Green Bay 28-9, with rookie quarterback Drew Allar accounting for three touchdowns. The third-round pick’s performance immediately attracted attention and added intrigue to a quarterback competition that remains one of the most closely watched storylines surrounding the team.
Steelers Reveal Critical Quarterback Plans
Will Howard is expected to start against New York, while Allar will serve as his backup. Both quarterbacks are expected to receive significant playing time, giving the coaching staff another extended look at their decision-making, accuracy and command of the offense.
Mason Rudolph and Aaron Rodgers are not expected to take the field. McCarthy indicated Wednesday that he had already seen what he needed from Rudolph during the opening preseason game.
“I saw what I needed to see from Mason last week,” McCarthy said.
Rodgers’ absence is also notable. The veteran quarterback has said the 2026 season could be his last, but the Steelers are taking a measured approach to his preseason workload. With Rodgers sidelined, the spotlight will shift to Howard and Allar as they compete for valuable snaps and attempt to strengthen their cases before roster decisions are finalized.
How to Watch Steelers vs. Jets
Fans in the Pittsburgh market can watch the game on KDKA-TV. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with Steelers Kickoff, featuring Bob Pompeani and former Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch.
- Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Jets
- Date: Friday, August 21, 2026
- Kickoff: 7 p.m. Eastern
- Location: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh
- Television: KDKA-TV in the Pittsburgh area
The Extra Point postgame show will follow the contest. A special edition of the Nightly Sports Call and KDKA-TV News at 11 will air afterward. CBS programming scheduled for prime time, including the CBS Evening News and several entertainment shows, will move to KDKA+.
What Is at Stake for Pittsburgh?
Preseason results do not count toward the regular-season standings, but Friday’s game still carries importance for the Steelers. The contest gives Howard and Allar additional opportunities to build chemistry with teammates, operate under pressure and show consistency against live competition.
Allar’s three-touchdown performance against Green Bay established an early benchmark. The rookie will now try to demonstrate that his success was more than a single strong outing. Howard, meanwhile, will look to make the most of his starting assignment and provide the offense with steady production.
The game also marks another step in McCarthy’s first season leading Pittsburgh. He replaced Mike Tomlin after Tomlin stepped down following 19 years with the organization. Every preseason decision, from quarterback rotations to player evaluations, is being closely monitored as McCarthy shapes the team in his first year.
Steelers Schedule After Friday’s Game
Pittsburgh has one remaining preseason game after facing the Jets. The Steelers will visit the Buffalo Bills on Thursday, August 27, with kickoff set for 7 p.m.
The regular season begins September 13 at home against the Atlanta Falcons. Other early-season opponents include the New England Patriots, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts. Pittsburgh is also scheduled to play the New Orleans Saints in Paris on October 25, creating one of the most distinctive dates on the 2026 schedule.
For now, the immediate focus is on the Jets and the continued development of Pittsburgh’s quarterback room. With Rodgers resting and Rudolph unavailable, Howard and Allar will have an important stage to show what they can do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do the Steelers play the Jets?
The Steelers and Jets are scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. Eastern on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Where will the Steelers vs. Jets game be played?
The preseason matchup will be held at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh.
How can fans watch the Steelers game?
Viewers in the Pittsburgh market can watch the game on KDKA-TV. Pre-game coverage begins at 6:30 p.m.
Will Aaron Rodgers play against the Jets?
No. Aaron Rodgers is not expected to play in this preseason matchup. Mason Rudolph is also scheduled to sit out.
Who is expected to start at quarterback?
Will Howard is expected to start, with rookie Drew Allar serving as his backup. Both quarterbacks should receive substantial playing time.
