Eli Heidenreich took part in his first Steelers rookie minicamp this weekend and drew positive comments from head coach Mike McCarthy.
The seventh-round draft pick from Navy showed quickness and comfort during drills alongside other rookies and undrafted players. McCarthy highlighted Heidenreich's skill set after the Saturday session, saying he seemed bright and picked up the offense readily.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers capped the 2026 NFL Draft—hosted in their hometown—with the 230th overall pick, selecting versatile Navy running back Eli Heidenreich, a Mt. Lebanon native and lifelong fan. The pass-catching back, likened to ex-Steelers standout Kenneth Gainwell (lost to free agency), joins a crowded backfield with Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, and Kaleb Johnson.
Scouts ranked Navy's Eli Heidenreich among the top running backs available and often in the top 200 overall prospects—making the Pittsburgh Steelers' seventh-round selection at No. 230 (as initially covered) a potential draft steal. The versatile Pittsburgh native could carve a niche as a slot receiver, special teamer, and change-of-pace back amid competition from Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Kaleb Johnson, and Travis Homer.
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Pittsburgh Steelers long snapper Christian Kuntz, a fellow Pittsburgh native, expressed strong excitement for the team's seventh-round draft pick Eli Heidenreich on his podcast, predicting the Navy running back will 'open a lot of eyes' with his talent.
The Pittsburgh Steelers hosted three college players for pre-draft visits on Thursday, including two projected first-round picks. The visitors were Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, USC wide receiver Makai Lemon and Michigan tight end Marlin Klein. These visits are part of the team's preparation ahead of the upcoming NFL draft.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers added 10 rookies in the 2026 NFL Draft and six undrafted free agents, including players at tight end and inside linebacker. Despite these moves, the team could seek veteran upgrades at those positions before training camp. Roster spots remain fluid as the Steelers aim to bolster depth.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham highlighted cornerback Brandin Echols as the defender who has impressed him most during the first two weeks of the offseason program. Graham shared his thoughts with reporters on Friday, noting Echols' energy in meetings. The praise comes amid a competitive secondary featuring several veterans.
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Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan has voiced appreciation for new head coach Mike McCarthy's fresh ideas shortly after his hiring. Khan highlighted McCarthy's embrace of the team's process while sharing successful strategies from past roles. The move comes as the Steelers aim to address longstanding offensive issues.