Steelers’ 17-0 Preseason Shutout Highlights QB Struggles and Roster Implications

The Pittsburgh Steelers were held scoreless as the New York Jets won 17-0 in a Week-2 preseason game at Acrisure Stadium in late August 2026. Starting second-year quarterback Will Howard completed 10 of 15 passes for 74 yards but threw two interceptions. Rookie third-round pick Drew Allar replaced Howard for the second half, finishing 11 of 23 for 110 yards, was sacked three times and did not produce a scoring drive. The Jets, led by veteran Geno Smith, scored on the opening drive and added a fourth-quarter field goal and a late touchdown pass.

Steelers offense can’t get untracked in shutout loss to the Jets Labriola on the loss to the Jets WTAE Pittsburgh's Action NewsSteelers Come Back to Earth in Ugly Preseason Loss to Jets Analyzing the Steelers preseason loss to the Jets, by the numbers ESPNPittsburgh Tribune Review

Following a 28-9 win over the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 13, the Steelers used the Jets matchup to evaluate the quarterback depth while Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph rested. The outcome influences the upcoming 53-man roster cut deadline.

Bleacher Report

• Total offensive plays: 68; time of possession: 31 minutes.

Labriola on the loss to the Jets

• Passing yards: 242 (Howard 74, Allar 110, others 58).

Pittsburgh Tribune Review

• Turnovers: 2 interceptions (both Howard).

USA Today

• Sacks allowed: 4 (Howard 1, Allar 3).

Pittsburgh Tribune Review

• Third-down conversion: 5 of 16 (31%).

Analyzing the Steelers preseason loss to the Jets, by the numbers

• Rushing: 98 yards on 26 carries (3.8 yards/attempt).

Analyzing the Steelers preseason loss to the Jets, by the numbers

Coach Mike McCarthy called the performance “a step back” and said the team must “clean up the little details.” He noted the interceptions were “one mistake leads to two.” Jets head coach Aaron Glenn praised his defense, calling the interceptions “good to get.”

Mike McCarthy Breaks Down Will Howard’s Two INTs vs. Jets

• “I just need to do a better job, especially early in drives, taking what's given,” — Drew Allar

Steelers shut out by Jets, 17-0, in preseason

• “Defensively, it was good to get the two interceptions,” — Aaron Glenn, head coach

5 Standout Players in Jets' Preseason Shutout Victory Over Steelers

• “There will definitely more to clean up this week than last week,” — Mike McCarthy, coach

Pittsburgh Tribune Review

The shutout underscores uncertainty in the Steelers’ quarterback hierarchy. Howard’s two picks have placed his backup status in doubt. The performance also highlighted concerns about the offensive line, with multiple starters rotating and failing to provide consistent protection.

Labriola on the loss to the Jets

Looking ahead, the Steelers will close the preseason against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night, a game that will likely serve as the final audition for Howard, Allar, and several linemen before the cut-down deadline. The coaching staff’s focus on “teaching” and “getting heavy and competitive” in the remaining practices suggests the team intends to address the execution gaps highlighted by the Jets loss before final roster decisions are made.

Bleacher Report