The Green Bay Packers ' preseason will begin on Thursday, 8/13, when they take on the Pittsburgh Steelers to kick off the 2026 preseason. Matt LaFleur has historically played the preseason pretty conservatively throughout his tenure, normally resting the starters. The team has announced that Jordan Love will start against the Steelers. Regardless of whether he plays, he will not receive more than a series or two.
The preseason is where unproven players can show what they can offer to an NFL team. The Packers are a team that gives undrafted free agents a true shot as well, having a UDFA on the Week 1 roster every year since 2005. The preseason will be paramount for UDFAs, and it is also the first time that the new rookie class is able to showcase their talents.
Jun 11, 2025; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Anthony Campbell (93) takes part in drills during mini-camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
Anthony Campbell is a UDFA whom the Seattle Seahawks originally signed before making his way to Green Bay this offseason. He has been a standout in training camp, whether it's tipping passes at the line or filling his gap in the run game, and is fighting for a spot on the interior defensive line. The fantastic start to training camp should afford him heavy playing time against the Steelers.
With the switch to a 3-4 defense, the Packers will need to have more players along the interior on the roster. Campbell has made a case with his impressive start to camp. He still has his work cut out for him if he wants to make this roster, but a good showing to start the Packers' preseason will be a major help.
Sticking with the defensive line, someone who is a lock to make this roster will be third-round selection Chris McClellan . McClellan was a standout defensive lineman at Missouri. He has gotten off to a quiet start in training camp while the aforementioned Campbell is flashing. The team has depth at the position, but someone needs to perform well against the Steelers.
Under the new defensive scheme, the team will be having three interior linemen on the field in most cases. Luckily for McClellan, he has time to develop with both Javon Hargrave and Devonte Wyatt being the starters. A case can be made that McClellan is around fourth on the depth chart as it stands right now. Expect McClellan to receive lots of snaps on Thursday.
Another UDFA to keep an eye on is rookie wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant out of Florida. Sturdivant was one of the more intriguing prospects to go undrafted. Listed at 6-foot-2, weighing 213 pounds, and running a 4.4 forty at the combine, Sturdivant has a combination of size and speed that teams love to see at the position.
Sturdivant will be fighting an uphill battle as the team has its top five receivers presumably locked. The rookie is battling for that sixth spot on the depth chart against the likes of Sky Moore and fellow UDFA Isaiah Neyor . A good showing in the Packers preseason could very well catapult him onto the roster, but look for him as a prime practice squad candidate nonetheless.
Aug 10, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) runs with the ball as Cleveland Browns linebacker Caleb Johnson (48) defends during the second half at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Another player that fans are salivating to see something from is Marshawn Lloyd . The former third-round pick is heading into what could be seen as a high-pressure situation this year. 2026 will be his third season, but he has yet to show he can stay healthy throughout his career thus far. He has shown that he has the skills, but staying on the field is a must in 2026.
With Josh Jacobs ' status still unclear, Lloyd may find himself with significant playing time this year. A strong showing will go a long way toward rebuilding the trust that he can stay healthy enough to be a contributor. Reports out of camp have suggested that he has already looked explosive in practice, and a strong start to the Packers preseason would do him some good.
Nov 4, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack safety Devan Boykin (12) is greeted by teammate Brandon Cisse (25) after an interception during the second half against the Miami Hurricanes at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
One of the biggest questions coming into 2026 for Green Bay was the cornerback room. The team addressed that position by using their top pick in the draft on 21-year-old Brandon Cisse . He has already had an impressive camp and has been regularly lining up with the ones and making plays.
Only 21 years old, Cisse is raw but a talented prospect who seems to have a great mind for the game. He's a solid tackler, which is something the Packers have desperately needed at the cornerback spot. While he only had 2 interceptions in college, he had 10 total pass deflections, showing a knack for the ball. With all the positivity coming out of camp, he is someone everyone will have their eye on, and it will be fascinating to see how much playing time he receives.
The preseason may not be the most fun thing to watch, but seeing players for the first time is maybe the most exciting thing about it. This will be the first of three Packers preseason games, and watching the development of these young players will be crucial to the team's success in 2026.
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