Eli Heidenreich
Steelers select hometown Navy RB Eli Heidenreich in seventh round to close 2026 NFL Draft
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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.
Former Navy position coach David Cole praised rookie Eli Heidenreich for his special teams potential with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The seventh-round pick must excel on special teams to secure a roster spot.
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Pittsburgh Steelers seventh-round draft pick Eli Heidenreich brings exceptional hands and versatility to the NFL after starring at the Naval Academy. Navy coaches Drew Cronic and David Cole highlighted his ability to make contested catches as a standout trait. Heidenreich set Navy's all-time receiving record while also rushing for more than 1,100 yards.