2026 NFL Preseason Week 3: Key Matches, Injuries, and What It Means for the Season
On Friday, August 28, 2026, the NFL Preseason entered its third week with several high-profile matchups as teams fine-tuned their rosters ahead of the regular season. The Kansas City Chiefs faced the Denver Broncos in a pivotal contest, while the Green Bay Packers squared off against the Tennessee Titans in a matchup highlighting quarterback competition. These games, held across the U.S., provided critical insights into team readiness and player performance.
According to the NFL’s official preseason schedule, the week’s games featured a mix of divisional rivals and cross-conference opponents, with each team using the opportunity to evaluate depth and strategy. The league emphasized that these contests are “primarily for development, with no impact on regular-season standings,” though fan interest remains high due to the visibility of star players and emerging talent.
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, faced the Broncos in a game that drew particular attention. Mahomes, the 2023 MVP, was seen in light drills, signaling a cautious approach to his workload. The Chiefs’ coaching staff confirmed that “Mahomes is progressing well, but we’re prioritizing his long-term health over short-term intensity,” as reported by ESPN.
Key Matches of the Night
The Chiefs vs. Broncos game marked the first of three prime-time contests on August 28. The Packers’ matchup against the Titans, scheduled for 8:00 PM ET at Lambeau Field, featured a quarterback battle between Jordan Love and the veteran Randall Cunningham. The Titans, meanwhile, leaned on their running game, with Derrick Henry, who recently signed a contract extension, expected to play a central role.
Other notable games included the Dallas Cowboys’ home opener against the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens’ visit to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Ravens, coming off a Super Bowl appearance, used the preseason to test their revamped defense, while the Steelers focused on integrating rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett into their offense.
“Preseason games are about building chemistry and identifying weaknesses,” said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh in a press conference. “We’re not looking for wins; we’re looking for progress.”
Injury Reports and Roster Updates
Injuries remained a concern for several teams. The Packers reported that wide receiver Davante Adams, who recently underwent ankle surgery, was “not yet cleared for full contact” and would sit out the Titans game. Similarly, the Chiefs placed tight end Travis Kelce on the inactive list, citing “rest and evaluation.”
The Titans, however, saw a positive update: linebacker Harold Landry, who missed the first two preseason games with a hamstring issue, was “expected to play,” according to team officials. Meanwhile, the Cowboys activated rookie running back Kyler Murray, who had been on the physically unable to perform list since training camp.
These adjustments underscored the fluid nature of preseason rosters. Teams often use the period to experiment with lineups, as seen with the Seahawks, who gave significant playing time to rookie quarterback Sam Darnold, who was acquired in a mid-June trade.
What It Means for the Season
The outcomes of these games, while not affecting regular-season records, offered clues about team priorities. The Chiefs’ decision to limit Mahomes’ snaps hinted at a strategy to preserve his health for the regular season, a move that could influence their playoff chances. Conversely, the Packers’ focus on Love’s development suggested a long-term commitment to the young quarterback.
For the Titans, the game against the Packers served as a test of their ability to adapt to a new offensive scheme under coordinator Arthur Smith. “We’re still figuring out how to maximize our talent,” said Smith in a postgame interview. “This is a process.”
The Steelers’ matchup with the Ravens highlighted the competitive landscape of the AFC North. Pittsburgh, coming off a 2025 playoff appearance, aimed to solidify its defense, while the Ravens sought to establish dominance in the division. Both teams entered the preseason with high expectations, though their performances on August 28 suggested areas for improvement.
Notable Performances and Stats
Several players stood out in the week’s games. In the Chiefs-Broncos contest, rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy caught two passes for 45 yards, showcasing his potential as a deep threat. The Packers’ Love completed 12 of 18
