NFL Preseason Week 2 Featured by Jets Lead Over Steelers and Lightning Suspension in Florida

The New York Jets built an early 16-0 lead against the Pittsburgh Steelers during Week 2 of the 2026 National Football League preseason in Pittsburgh, highlighted by key offensive plays from quarterback Brady Cook and wide receiver Junior Bergen.

Cook delivered a 31-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Quincy Skinner to extend the Jets’ advantage over the host team. Bergen set up additional field position with a 44-yard reception on a screen pass and recorded a 27-yard punt return that concluded near midfield. Pittsburgh attempted to respond through quarterback Drew Allar, who completed a 17-yard pass to wide receiver Isaiah Winstead to advance the Steelers into New York territory.

In other action across the league, severe weather forced the suspension of the exhibition contest between the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars. Match officials halted play following lightning strikes in the area. Prior to the delay, Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett completed a touchdown pass to wide receiver Roc Taylor and linked up with wide receiver John Metchie III for a 25-yard gain. Carolina running back Casey Washington scored a touchdown after escaping a tackle, while defensive back Devonta Smith forced a fumble that linebacker Cam Gill recovered. For Jacksonville, quarterback Joey Aguilar threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Trebor Pena.

The Green Bay Packers showcased a strong special teams performance during their preseason game against the Denver Broncos. Kicker Trey Smack converted three long field goals, hitting from 43, 51, and 59 yards out. Green Bay running back Pierre Strong Jr. added a 68-yard kickoff return. On offense, Packers quarterback Jordan Love threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to running back MarShawn Lloyd, and quarterback Tyrod Taylor connected with wide receiver Will Sheppard on a 2-yard scoring pass. Safety Mark Perry intercepted Denver quarterback Jarrett Stidham to set up a Green Bay scoring opportunity.

Denver quarterback Bo Nix registered his first completion as a member of the Broncos, connecting on a 35-yard pass to wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. Nix also threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to running back RJ Harvey. Broncos kicker Will Lutz converted a 53-yard field goal, while Stidham completed passes to wide receivers Lil’ Jordan Humphrey for 18 yards and Dane Key for 25 yards.

Additionally, Dallas Cowboys running back DeeJay Dallas successfully converted a two-point attempt.

Background

The National Football League (NFL) preseason is a series of exhibition games played annually prior to the start of the regular season. These non-counting contests allow franchises to evaluate newly acquired rookies and free agents, adjust tactical playbooks, and finalize player rosters ahead of the competitive season.