Full Breakdown
Steelers Secure Preseason Victory Over Panthers Amid Injury Concerns
8/22/2025, 10:39:06 PM
Game Overview: Steelers vs. Panthers
In the final preseason game on August 21, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Carolina Panthers 19-10 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Steelers concluded their preseason with a 2-1 record, while the Panthers ended winless at 0-3. Pittsburgh's head coach Mike Tomlin opted to play several starters, including Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay, while Carolina rested all of theirs, including key players like Bryce Young and Andy Dalton.
Key Performances and Injuries
Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson completed 11 of 13 passes for 152 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown to Lance McCutcheon. Mason Rudolph started but was replaced by Thompson after a lackluster performance. The Steelers' running back Jaylen Warren made his preseason debut, contributing minimally with 3 rushing yards and 12 receiving yards.
However, the game was marred by injuries for Pittsburgh. Defensive end Derrick Harmon, the team's first-round draft pick, suffered a significant knee sprain and was carted off the field. Tomlin described the injury as significant but did not provide a timeline for Harmon’s return. Additionally, wide receiver Brandon Johnson left the game with a foot injury.
On the Panthers' side, quarterback Jack Plummer struggled initially but managed to complete 7 of 14 passes for 48 yards and a touchdown. However, the team faced difficulties in the second half, particularly under quarterback Bryce Perkins, who failed to lead a scoring drive and turned the ball over on a sack-fumble.
Official Statements & Responses
Mike Tomlin expressed dissatisfaction with the Steelers' performance, highlighting issues such as excessive penalties and poor tackling. He noted, “I thought we were highly penalized... and the tackling was shaky at best at times.” Despite the win, he acknowledged that the team is not yet a finished product.
Panthers rookie outside linebacker Princely Umanmielen downplayed concerns about the team's winless preseason, referencing past experiences of teammates who succeeded despite similar records. “I don’t really look at it too much... Minnesota was usually always in the playoffs," he stated.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out the Steelers' lack of discipline, as evidenced by 13 penalties that resulted in over 100 yards lost. This has raised concerns about their readiness for the regular season. Meanwhile, the Panthers' decision to rest starters has been scrutinized, as it may have contributed to their inability to secure a win throughout the preseason.
What's Next
Both teams are set to open their regular seasons on September 7, 2025. The Steelers will face the New York Jets, while the Panthers will take on the Jacksonville Jaguars. The upcoming games will be crucial for both teams as they aim to address the issues highlighted during the preseason and solidify their rosters.
