What happened: Aaron Rodgers enters 2026 as the starter, with Mason Rudolph as his primary backup and Will Howard and Drew Allar developing behind them. Broderick Jones went to the Dallas Cowboys with a 2027 fourth-round pick for third- and sixth-round selections, while the Green Bay Packers acquired Kaleb Johnson for a sixth-round pick.
Why it matters: Carrying both prospects preserves a 2027 succession competition after Rodgers' planned retirement. Jones's departure elevates Max Iheanachor as the leading swing-tackle option behind Troy Fautanu and Dylan Cook.
By the numbers: Howard finished the preseason with three touchdowns and three turnovers; Allar totaled four touchdowns without an interception.
What to watch: Pittsburgh next must establish Howard and Allar's weekly active status and settle the swing-tackle rotation.