Pittsburgh Steelers fifth-round pick Riley Nowakowski could see significant playing time this season. Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac highlighted the fullback's potential in a recent chat. The addition of Mike McCarthy as offensive leader has revived the fullback position.
Dulac noted that McCarthy favors fullbacks and drafted Nowakowski specifically for that reason. He stated that the rookie has a chance to play as much as any other first-year player on the roster.
Nowakowski showed versatility during organized team activities and minicamp by lining up as an in-line tight end and occasionally in the slot. His primary strength remains blocking, which stood out during Indiana's national championship run last season.
McCarthy previously relied on fullbacks such as Hunter Luepke, who logged 30 percent of offensive snaps in his final year with the Dallas Cowboys. That usage pattern could translate to Pittsburgh and create opportunities for Nowakowski despite competition from other tight ends.
