NFL preseason Week 1 takeaways: Mendoza debuts for Raiders; Allar shines for Steelers

The first week of the 2026 NFL preseason offered early looks at rookies and new-team debuts, highlighted by the Cardinals’ 27-14 win over the Raiders and a standout start by Drew Allar for the Steelers. Arizona rookie Jeremiyah Love totaled 11 carries for 58 yards (5.3 per attempt) and added three catches for 14 yards, while Reggie Virgil made a one-handed 24-yard grab. Second-round pick Chase Bisontis left with a knee injury. For Oakland, the quarterback battle showed Kirk Cousins’ touchdown drive early and Fernando Mendoza’s later rally, finishing 10-of-16 for 97 yards despite pressure.