Even after sustaining a thumb injury in last year's preseason opener, Jordan Love is expected to play in the Green Bay Packers' first preseason game of 2026 on Thursday at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Coach Matt LaFleur said Tuesday he believes there's value in getting "mentally ready to go play a game, whether it's one play, whether it's three plays, 10 plays, the whole game." However, he added: "I always have the right to change my mind."

On Aug. 9 of last year, Love injured the ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb against the New York Jets. He had surgery and missed the remaining preseason games but was ready for the season opener. Love said Tuesday: "Obviously what happened last year sucked. ... Me and Matt have talked, and I think the plan is to play some limited role this week."

Love admitted he will play differently than in regular season, saying: "The main thing is to stay healthy. Avoid taking hits." LaFleur indicated many starters will play, citing data that players who get preseason snaps are over three times less likely to get injured in the regular season.