The Pittsburgh Steelers targeted their special teams weaknesses during the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting players to bolster returns and core contributions. This move addresses losses from free agency and a coaching change. The team added dynamic return specialist Kaden Wetjen and versatile fullback Riley Nowakowski.
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2026 NFL Draft with significant gaps in their special teams unit after losing key players like James Pierre, Miles Killebrew, and Connor Heyward in free agency. Longtime special teams coordinator Danny Smith departed, prompting a rebuild under new coach Danny Crossman. The team signed running back Travis Homer for special teams duties but lacked a reliable return option amid struggles under new NFL kickoff rules, where they ranked among the league's worst return teams. The Steelers drafted Kaden Wetjen in the fourth round, described as the top college return man over the past two seasons, capable of handling both kicks and punts. They also selected fullback Riley Nowakowski, a four-down player set to replace Heyward on offense and special teams, and seventh-round pick Robert Spears-Jennings, who projects as a long-term special teams contributor. These additions provide a solid floor of special teams players. While punter Cameron Johnston may still face competition from veterans or rookies like Gabe Nwosu, the draft has largely filled the unit's biggest holes. The Steelers now focus on extending kicker Chris Boswell to retain one of the game's best. The new faces will need time to integrate, but special teams outlook has improved dramatically.
