- Gamebook
The Steelers opened the preseason with a 31-25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, holding on at the end, while getting a good look at players at multiple positions, including the quarterback spot.
Mason Rudolph, who returned to the Steelers this offseason after spending the 2024 season with the Tennessee Titans, and Skylar Thompson handled the majority of the quarterback duties, while the debut of rookie Will Howard didn't happen due to an injury suffered in training camp.
Rudolph started the game, completing nine of 10 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown pass to tight end Darnell Washington.
"(Offensive coordinator) Arthur (Smith) did a good job of calling some aggressive shots over the middle," said Rudolph. "First couple plays and first drive. Roman Wilson made a really nice catch to kind of get us going. So, it was fun.
"Good to be back in the black and gold. Just a lot of friends, a lot of dear friends and coaches that I've spent a lot of time with and there's just a level of comfortability there that you can't really replace."
Thompson entered the game in the second quarter, finishing the night completing 20 of 28 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns.
"I was super excited to get out and compete today," said Thompson. "Coming into a new organization, new team, a little bit of a fresh start for me. I was excited to go play some football with all my teammates and definitely did that today."
Logan Woodside, signed earlier in the week due to Howard's injury, finished out the night, although he didn't attempt a pass.
"It was really a good evening's work," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "We got put in a lot of situations and got a chance to watch people perform in them. Two-minute drive before the half, kind of highlighting some of that. I thought we did a nice job of not beating our own butt. We kept pre-snap penalties virtually to a minimum. I think we had one.
"We played a pretty clean game for a first time out. We gave a lot of people a lot of opportunities and that's what this is about. It was good to see some offensive players tackling on special teams, defensive players blocking on special teams. We'll comb through that really closely. And to top it all off, we kind of got through the game virtually injury free. I think Cam McCutcheon got taken out with a soft tissue injury, maybe a hamstring that needs to be evaluated. But other than that, we're pretty clean.
"And so productive night on a lot of fronts. And obviously we'll comb through the tape and learn from it in a lot of ways, both players and coaches, and hopefully be better the next time out."
As is often the case in the preseason, the Steelers were without a good chunk of their starters against the Jaguars. Tomlin choose to sit multiple players, including T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay, DeShon Elliott, Patrick Queen and Nick Herbig sitting on the defensive side. On offense Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth, Jaylen Warren and Isaac Seumalo also didn't play.
In addition, Calvin Austin III, Alex Highsmith, Cory Trice Jr. and Donte Kent didn't play due to injuries.
Those who did play, though, battled until the end to pull out the victory.
Game action photos from the Steelers' Week 1 preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington (80) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Mason McCormick (66) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington (80) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Fans during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Ben Sauls (29) and punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Robert Woods (16) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson (10) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steeler during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle DeMarvin Leal (98) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback James Pierre (42) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Beanie Bishop (31) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end DeMarvin Leal (98) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Logan Lee (91) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game agains the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Julius Welschof (45) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Chuck Clark (21) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Logan Lee (91) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) and safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Sermon (27) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Cameron Johnston (5) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17), running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Corliss Waitman (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. (31) and safety Miles Killebrew (28) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson (20) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers celebrate a touchdown during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) and running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) and offensive tackle Dylan Cook (60) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Ben Sauls (29) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Interior view during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Max Hurleman (34) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Julius Welschof (45) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Sermon (27) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Sermon (27) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Sermon (27) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Scotty Miller (13) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Aiden Williams (71) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roc Taylor (89) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Gareth Warren (78) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson (93) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Kyler Baugh (65) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Breidan Fehoko (79) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Ben Sauls (29) and punter Corliss Waitman (3) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Evan Hull (38) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Aiden Williams (71) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Aiden Williams (71) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lance McCutcheon (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Sebastian Castro (29) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Malik Harrison (50) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Evan Hull (38) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Julius Welschof (45) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back D'Shawn Jamison (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lance McCutcheon (82) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (99) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Doug Nester (72) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Carson Bruener (44) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams (85) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Ben Sauls (29) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Lew Nichols (35) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) and wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams (85) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dylan Cook (60) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dylan Cook (60) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Lew Nichols (35) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Lew Nichols (35) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams (85) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Lew Nichols (35) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams (85) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back D'Shawn Jamison (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ke'Shawn Williams (85) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Scotty Miller (13) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dylan Cook (60) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Troy Fautanu (76) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Logan Woodside (6) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Mariah Wild / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Breidan Fehoko (79) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Carson Bruener (44) and safety Sebastian Castro (29) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Carson Bruener (44) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Steelers opened the game on defense, facing Jaguars starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence. It looked like the Steelers would force a three-and-out when Beanie Bishop stopped Travis Hunter a yard short on third down, but the Jaguars went for it on fourth-and-one and Dyami Brown went around left end for a seven-yard gain to move the chains.
The Jaguars moved the chains again when Lawrence hit Travis Etienne for a 10-yard gain to the Steelers 27-yard line. Penalties cost the Jaguars, pushing them back on an illegal block above the waist, and then the defense closed the door, forcing the Jaguars to settle for a 41-yard Cam Little field goal for an early 3-0 lead.
Rudolph got the Steelers offense rolling with a 19-yard completion to Roman Wilson to the Jaguars 46-yard line. Ben Skowronek pulled in a three-yard reception, and it was back to Wilson for a five-yard gain. On third down, Rudolph hit Brandon Johnson for a five-yard gain and a first down. After an illegal use of hands penalty on Troy Fautanu, Rudolph connected with Scotty Miller for a 15-yard gain. Rookie Kaleb Johnson picked up four yards for another first down.
It was then time for the big man, as Rudolph hit Washington over the middle for a 19-yard touchdown, and rookie free agent Ben Sauls hit the extra point for a 7-3 lead.
Rudolph was a perfect seven-for-seven on the drive for 70 yards, efficiently moving the ball on a nine-play, 65-yard drive that took 4:45 off the clock.
It didn't take long for the Jaguars to make a change at quarterback, with Lawrence coming out after the first series and completing six of seven passes for 43 yards.
Nick Mullens took over under center, moving the offense into the redzone before the defense shut them down. On third-and-five at the Steelers 16-yard line, linebacker Cole Holcomb, seeing his first action since he suffered a serious knee injury during the 2023 season, made a beautiful play to break up a pass from Mullens to Tank Bigsby. The Jaguars were forced to settle for a 40-yard field goal, cutting the Steelers lead to 7-6.
Things weren't quite as smooth on the Steelers' second drive as they were on the opening drive. Rudolph completed an eight-yard pass to Connor Heyward, followed by a seven-yard run by Kaleb Johnson. But that would be it. Rudolph was sacked for a 10-yard loss, and Kaleb Johnson wasn't able to hold onto a Rudolph pass. On third-and-20 the Steelers were only able to get six yards on a completion to Miller, forcing a Cam Johnston 42-yard punt, his first since an injury ended his 2024 season after just one game.
After a defensive stop by the Steelers, the offense took over with quarterback Skylar Thomspon under center at the 7:15 mark in the second quarter. Thomspon completed his first pass attempt to Heyward for a nine-yard gain, but Kaleb Johnson was knocked for a three-yard loss to put the Steelers in a third-and-four situation. Thompson was forced to scramble under pressure, coming up a yard short of the first down after a holding call on Dylan Cook was declined.
While the drive stalled, it was an opportunity for punter Corliss Waitman, who is in a battle with Johnston for the job. Waitman boomed a 56-yard punt, with the Jaguars forced to start at their own 25-yard line.
The Steeles defense forced a three-and-out on the ensuing drive thanks to a pass defense by Beanie Bishop on third-and-four.
Thompson got the Steelers rolling, spreading the ball around to Brandon Johnson for a seven-yard gain, before back-to-back completions to Miller for 22 and four yards respectively. Lance McCutcheon pulled in a six-yard reception, before Thompson went over the middle to Max Hurleman for 26 yards.
Thompson went right back to Hurleman for a three-yard touchdown, putting the Steelers up, 14-6, courtesy of an 11-play, 85-yard drive that included running the two-minute offense.
"We had timeouts, but we didn't want to use them," said Tomlin. "We wanted to keep the pressure on them and minimize some of their defensive calls. I think it worked out in advantage schematically.
"We were able to get some chunks and work our way down the field."
It looked like that would be a lead the team would take into halftime, but with one second left on the clock, Little did the unthinkable and hit a 70-yard field goal, cutting the lead to 14-9.
"You've just got to tip your cap to that field goal kicker, banging that 70-yarder," said Tomlin. "That's an incredible kick."
The Steelers got the ball to start the half, but it stalled quickly. Trey Sermon gained two-yards on a rush up the middle and added a seven-yard reception from Thompson. On fourth-and-one at their own 44-yard line, Kaleb Johnson was stopped for no gain, turning the ball over on downs.
Jacksonville took advantage, not just of getting the ball, but benefiting off an ill-timed penalty. Mullens deep pass for Trenton Irwin was intercepted by Cameron McCutcheon at the two-yard line. The play was negated by a 15-yard roughing the passer call on Isaiahh Loudermilk, giving the Jaguars new life. And they made it count.
Mullens drove the offense down the field, hitting Irwin for an 11-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion failed, giving Jacksonville a 15-14 lead.
Ke'Shawn Williams came through with a key reception on the Steelers next drive, pulling in a 29-yard reception on third-and-11. Roc Taylor also came up big, with a 16-yard grab for another first down. Sermon took it for 10 yards on a shovel pass from Thompson, giving the offense the ball in the red zone at the 11-yard line. Thompson went right back to Sermon for an 11-yard touchdown on the screen pass, capping a nine-play, 69-yard drive to take the lead back, 21-15.
John Wolford came in at quarterback for the Jaguars midway through the third quarter, and in his first series was stopped for a three-and-out.
Thompson remained in the game for the Steelers, steadily driving the offense down the field with completions to J.J. Galbreath, Lance McCutcheon and Roc Taylor, with Evan Hull carrying the ball three straight times for 12 yards to the six-yard line.
The offense sputtered, with Hull losing one yard, newly signed offensive lineman Austin Peat getting hit with a false start, and Thompson sacked for a seven-yard loss, losing the ball, but Hull recovered. After looking like they were going to take it into the end zone easily, they had to settle for a Sauls 36-yard field goal, extending the lead to 24-15.
Chunk plays worked to the advantage of the Jaguars, as well as relentless effort by Bhayshul Tuten, who battled his way into the end zone for an eight-yard touchdown to cut the lead to 24-22.
Thompson had no intention of stopping, though. He engineered a 10-play, 67-yard drive that ate up 5:46 and was highlighted by a 26-yard touchdown pass to Williams, for a 31-22 lead.
Seth Henigan entered the game late for the Jaguars, leading them on a field goal drive to cut the lead to 31-25.
With Thompson's night over, it would be Woodside who would finish out the night at quarterback for the Steelers.
The Jaguars had one final drive trying to pull out the win, but the defense held on to secure the victory.
