Building on their post-2026 NFL Draft undrafted free agent signings at tight end, Pittsburgh Steelers rookie Lake McRee has earned high praise from The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner as one of his favorite UDFAs. Baumgardner spotlighted McRee's run-blocking tenacity despite past injuries, positioning him as a contender for the TE3 role.
The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner highlighted USC tight end Lake McRee, signed by the Steelers as a UDFA alongside Arizona State's Chamon Metayer, as a standout undrafted prospect. Last season at USC, McRee posted 30 receptions for 450 yards and four touchdowns, shining at the East-West Shrine Bowl as a reliable pass-catcher. Now healthy, his scouting report projects him as a solid NFL receiving tight end. Baumgardner wrote: “Injuries were a factor throughout McRee’s career, but his work as a run blocker is hard to ignore — he gets after it with strong hands and a desire to finish. Despite being a relatively average athlete, he’s a well-balanced player who hangs on to the football and likes to do the dirty work.” McRee joins 2025 UDFA JJ Galbreath in competing for the TE3 spot behind incumbents Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth. His route-running and hands are assets, but consistent blocking will be crucial in OTAs and training camp. Among the Steelers' six UDFAs, McRee's upside could make him a roster impact player if he stays healthy.
