Drew Allar & 3 NFL rookies who impressed in preseason debuts

The NFL’s official Week 1 of the preseason got underway Thursday, featuring plenty of strong performances and even some unconventional results. However, one thing was certain: rookies would make their debuts in front of their new fans. Several rookies stood out Thursday night, with more noteworthy debuts coming Friday and Saturday. Still, Thursday evening belonged to the 2026 NFL Draft class, as several rookies delivered impressive performances. MORE: 11 most fun & iconic NFL game-day traditions Here are a few of the rookies who impressed and even turned some heads with surprising performances. Drew Allar Aug 13, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Drew Allar warms up for a pre-season game against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) The Pittsburgh Steelers got an extended look at their young quarterbacks with Aaron Rodgers sitting out their first preseason game. While Will Howard put together an impressive two-minute drill in the first half, former Penn State product Drew Allar ultimately stole the show. It was a night to remember for Allar, who completed 10 of 13 passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing score, accounting for three of Pittsburgh’s four touchdowns on the night. It was a performance that should give Allar plenty of confidence as he continues adjusting to the professional level. MORE: How to live stream every 2026 NFL Preseason games for free While it’s important to remember this was preseason football, Allar delivered a strong debut. Hopefully, Steelers fans don’t get too carried away after what happened with Kenny Pickett during the 2023 preseason. Fernando Mendoza Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up before a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Brytus-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Allar wasn’t the only rookie quarterback to make his debut Thursday night. Las Vegas Raiders first overall pick Fernando Mendoza took his first live snaps in the Silver and Black. Overall, it was a successful debut, although Mendoza also displayed a few rookie moments. Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown. He accounted for essentially half of the Raiders’ scoring in his debut, with the other touchdown drive coming from Kirk Cousins, whom Mendoza will develop behind. MORE: Fernando Mendoza impresses in preseason debut Mendoza delivered several excellent throws that showed why he was considered the strongest quarterback prospect in this year’s draft class. Jeremiyah Love Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love (4) practices during training camp at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on July 26, 2026. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Love officially made his preseason debut after sitting out the Hall of Fame Game. It was a strong showing that was cut short by an injury that Mike LaFleur indicated wasn’t anything serious. Thankfully, the injury shouldn’t overshadow what was an impressive performance from the former Notre Dame product. Love had 14 touches for 72 yards from scrimmage. He showed why he was considered a top-five prospect with his versatility and effortless ability to carry the ball. His longest run of the night went for 16 yards. MORE: NFL games on today: 2026 Preseason Week 1 TV schedule – Friday, August 14 Love drew some polarizing reactions to where he was selected on draft night. Now, he’ll have an opportunity to prove his doubters wrong during his rookie season. De’Zhaun Stribling Aug 6, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling (15) during training camp at SAP Performance Facility. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Currently serving as the de facto WR1, Stribling delivered another impressive debut. He put together a strong performance as the team’s leading receiver and showed why some considered him the biggest steal of the NFL Draft. Stribling caught seven of his eight targets for 63 yards. While the yardage total doesn’t jump off the page, he proved to be a reliable target the San Francisco 49ers will need in 2026. Ricky Pearsall is expected to miss the season, putting Stribling in line for an increased role alongside Mike Evans.