NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 12, 2026Miami-Dade
Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for preseason opener featuring hometown coach and rookie
The Pittsburgh Steelers begin their preseason against the Green Bay Packers this Thursday, marking the home debut for new head coach Mike McCarthy and rookie player Eli Heidenreich. Both individuals are transitioning from their roles as local fans to professional contributors for the team.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The games serve as the primary evaluation period for the Steelers' coaching staff to determine the final roster and assess the performance of young players like quarterbacks Will Howard and Drew Allar.
Key Facts
- The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night for their preseason opener.
- Mike McCarthy is serving his first season as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Eli Heidenreich is a rookie player attempting to secure a roster spot, primarily as a special teams contributor.
- Heidenreich is a Pittsburgh native and former Navy football player.
- Heidenreich recently experienced a hamstring injury that limited his participation in practice.
- The Steelers are evaluating young quarterbacks Will Howard and Drew Allar during the preseason.
- Heidenreich wears jersey number 29 and weighs 206 pounds.
Who's Mentioned
personMike McCarthy“First-year Pittsburgh Steelers head coach”personWill Howard“Steelers quarterback”organizationGreen Bay Packers“NFL football team”locationAcrisure Stadium“Home stadium of the Pittsburgh Steelers”other206“Heidenreich's weight in pounds”organizationPittsburgh Steelers“NFL football team”personEli Heidenreich“Rookie NFL player and Pittsburgh native”personChristian McCaffrey“San Francisco 49ers running back”personRamon Chinyoung“Steelers backfield coach”personDrew Allar“Steelers quarterback”other29“Heidenreich's jersey number”