Navy coaches praise eli heidenreich's strong hands for steelers role

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.

Navy offensive coordinator Drew Cronic and position coach David Cole spoke to Steelers Depot about Heidenreich's strengths. They emphasized his powerful grip and ball skills, which helped him excel in a hybrid role known as a snipe at the Naval Academy. Cole noted that Heidenreich has really good hands and can track balls with the best of them, while Cronic added that his hands are the strongest he has seen in any player coached.

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Eli Heidenreich, Steelers' 2026 draft pick from Navy, celebrates on Pittsburgh NFL Draft stage with jersey and fans.
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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.

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Navy running back and wide receiver Eli Heidenreich in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Pittsburgh native returns to his hometown team after a standout career at the Naval Academy. Heidenreich has already begun integrating with the roster during rookie minicamp.

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Eli Heidenreich, a running back from the Naval Academy, was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 230th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Nick Herbig said rookie offensive tackle Max Iheanachor has handled his initial transition to the NFL well during organized team activities and minicamp.

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The Pittsburgh Steelers signed wide receiver Germie Bernard and running back Eli Heidenreich to four-year rookie contracts on Monday. The moves leave only third-round quarterback Drew Allar unsigned among the team's 2026 draft class.

Pittsburgh Steelers second-round pick Germie Bernard has impressed coaches and observers during rookie minicamp, OTAs and mandatory minicamp. The Alabama wide receiver, selected at No. 47 overall after a trade-up, is viewed as pro-ready by those who have watched him practice.

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A former NFL scout believes the Pittsburgh Steelers possess one of the league's top tight end groups. Bucky Brooks highlighted Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington for their blocking and receiving skills.

 

 

 

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