LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 11: Brandon Aiyuk #11 of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during pregame warmups before Super Bowl LVIII against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)
3 winners (and 3 losers) from Steelers’ ugly preseason loss vs. Texans
The Steelers’ preseason opener offered a first glimpse of what’s to come this season—and it wasn’t all pretty. The Steelers kicked off their preseason with a Friday night game against the Houston Texans, falling short with a 20-12 loss.
As is typical in early preseason action, the game was marked by some sloppy play, particularly from the first-team offense as they worked to shake off the rust. Despite the overall struggles, there were both standout performances and areas of concern. Here are three winners and losers from the Steelers’ first preseason game.
Three Winners:
Payton Wilson
One standout player was Payton Wilson, who played with relentless intensity as if his hair was on fire. His speed was evident, constantly positioning him near the ball, and he made an immediate impact with a tackle for loss on his first play.
Over the course of his time on the field, he racked up six tackles, showcasing a strong outing in his first preseason game.
DeMarvin Leal
For a player who needed a strong training camp and preseason, he has certainly risen to the occasion. Pittsburgh has been counting on the former third-round pick to take the next step and secure a spot on the team, and Friday night he delivered. Leal not only recorded a sack but also consistently disrupted plays.
Over the course of his time on the field, he racked up six tackles, showcasing a strong outing in his first preseason game.
DeMarvin Leal
For a player who needed a strong training camp and preseason, he has certainly risen to the occasion. Pittsburgh has been counting on the former third-round pick to take the next step and secure a spot on the team, and Friday night he delivered. Leal not only recorded a sack but also consistently disrupted plays.
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3 Losers:
Quez Watkins
For a player on the bubble, the first preseason game was far from an ideal opportunity to impress the coaching staff and front office. Serving as the Steelers’ starting punt returner, he muffed a punt and showed a lackluster effort in trying to recover the ball. The Texans capitalized on the turnover, turning it into a touchdown, which certainly didn’t help his chances of securing a roster spot.
