Three Steelers with the most to lose against the Falcons
The Pittsburgh Steelers kick off their 2026 NFL campaign at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday afternoon, hosting the Atlanta Falcons in an opening-week clash set for 1 p.m. Eastern Time.
Both organizations are ushering in new chapters under fresh leadership, highlighted by Mike McCarthy taking the reins for his first regular-season contest as Pittsburgh's head coach. On the field, the home side aims to keep quarterback Aaron Rodgers well-protected and integrate tight end Pat Freiermuth into the offensive scheme, while working to slow down Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson.
Key individual battles and strategic dynamics are poised to define the contest, including a high-profile showdown between Falcons wide receiver Drake London and veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Pittsburgh may also look to capitalize on an Atlanta pass rush that enters the opener short-handed, while applying intense heat to Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who faces mounting pressure under center.
