Tampa Bay will roll out starters in Saturday’s tune‑up against the Steelers, while Pittsburgh leans on reserves at the sport’s most critical positions. Aaron Rodgers, the marquee offseason addition for Pittsburgh, is slated to start but his preseason reps are unclear after sitting out Game 1. The Steelers face a deep backdrop of absences, with Lavonte David and Mike Evans sidelined for TB, and T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Jaylen Warren and Pat Freiermuth among the Steelers’ dozen+ listed as out or limited. Expect depth players to seize increased roles on both sides as these teams evaluate ahead of Week 1. Fantasy managers should watch Rodgers’ acclimation with a reshaped offense and identify which depth options might step up if top players remain sidelined.

Rodgers did not play in the first preseason game, a signal that Pittsburgh may lean on timing and scheme continuity in the early going rather than explosive rhythm. Tampa Bay’s approach of featuring starters amid injury doubt could pressure some reserve defenders, and the absence of Evans and David could elevate other pass‑catchers and backfield types in this matchup. In fantasy terms, the game becomes a laboratory for depth charts and role clarity, with sleepers emerging as the preseason unfolds while expectations for the headline stars are tempered by limited exposure.