Full Breakdown
Luke Altmyer’s Preseason Debut Highlights Promise and Growing Pains
8/14/2026, 11:23:22 AM
Game Overview
Undrafted rookie quarterback Luke Altmyer started most of Detroit’s first 2026 preseason contest against the Cincinnati Bengals. He completed 13 of 22 passes for 130 yards, threw one touchdown, and was responsible for three turnovers—including two interceptions and a fumble. The Lions fell 16-14, and the result left Altmyer’s position on the depth chart uncertain.
Background & Context
The opportunity arose after backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater announced his retirement, prompting head coach Dan Campbell to rest starter Jared Goff and other veterans for the exhibition game. Altmyer, a former Illinois signal-caller who started 35 games in college, signed a three-year, $3.11 million contract with Detroit after going undrafted, receiving a $10,000 signing bonus and $257,500 guaranteed.
Performance Data
- Passing: 13/22, 130 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT
- Rushing: 4 carries for 1 yard, 1 two-point conversion, 1 fumble lost
- College career: 7,924 passing yards, 60 touchdowns, >60 % completion rate each season
These statistics illustrate both the rookie’s ability to generate scoring plays and the challenges he faced in ball security.
Official Statements & Responses
Campbell praised Altmyer’s handling of “really tough positions” and noted that mistakes are part of growth, adding that the coaching staff will learn more once the games progress.
What’s Next
Both Altmyer and fellow backup candidate Joshua Dobbs are expected to see action in Detroit’s next preseason matchup later in August, giving the coaching staff additional data to determine the final backup quarterback.
