Kirk Ferentz praises Kaden Wetjen return skills

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz hailed Pittsburgh Steelers fourth-round pick Kaden Wetjen as one of the best return specialists he has encountered in his decades-long career. Ferentz shared his views during an appearance on The PM Team radio show. The comments highlight Wetjen's potential impact on special teams.

Ferentz, who has coached since 1977 and led Iowa since 1999, spoke highly of Wetjen's vision, judgment and speed on returns. He noted that Wetjen plays faster than his 4.47-second 40-yard dash time recorded at the NFL Combine and called him the best returner he has been around in the last two years. Ferentz added that he remains puzzled why opponents punted to Wetjen during the college season.

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The Pittsburgh Steelers selected 10 players in the 2026 NFL Draft, including offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round and wide receiver Kaden Wetjen in the fourth. Newcomer Kaden Wetjen expressed openness to lining up in the backfield on offense. Analysts offered varied praise and criticism for the haul.

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