Pittsburgh Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly believes rookie running back Eli Heidenreich will start the season on the team's practice squad. The 2026 NFL Draft pick has drawn attention as a local product from the U.S. Naval Academy.
Kaboly shared his view Monday during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan’s The Fan Morning Show. “I think he’s destined for the practice squad,” he said. “That doesn’t mean he’s not gonna eventually be a contributor, but the practice squad’s there for a reason.”
Heidenreich, selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, is a Pittsburgh native who graduated from the Naval Academy. There he set records as the all-time leading receiver with 109 catches for 1,994 yards and 16 touchdowns over three seasons. He also rushed for 1,157 yards and seven touchdowns.
The Steelers already have several established running backs, including Rico Dowdle, Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson. Kaboly noted the practice squad offers time for development without ending Heidenreich’s long-term prospects.
