Ray Fittipaldo offered positive early reviews of seventh-round draft pick Eli Heidenreich after the rookie completed spring practices with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The reporter highlighted the former Navy player's preparation and athletic traits during comments on 93.7 The Fan.
Fittipaldo said Heidenreich arrived well-prepared and proved faster and more athletic than expected for a service academy product. He added that the rookie and two other late-round selections had strong springs overall.
Heidenreich's college career at Navy featured more than 3,000 scrimmage yards and nearly 2,000 receiving yards. The Steelers drafted him as the final pick of their class, giving him an uphill path to the 53-man roster.
Special teams work will likely determine whether Heidenreich earns a spot, Fittipaldo noted. He pointed out that the team already has established depth at running back and receiver ahead of the 2026 season.
Heidenreich logged more than 200 special teams snaps in college and has primarily worked at running back during organized team activities.
