The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Navy RB Eli Heidenreich in Round 7 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Heidenreich racked up 3,151 yards over the past three seasons while playing both RB and WR. He totaled 169 career carries for Navy’s option-centric attack and churned out a strong 6.8 yards per attempt. He drew 172 targets for his career and tallied a school-record 941 yards in 2025. Heidenreich could stick at RB or even play WR for his new team. Among the 20 RBs invited to the NFL Combine, Heidenreich ranked 12th in yards after contact per attempt (3.17) and second in 2025 Explosive Run percentage (20.8%). He ranked first in 2025 missed tackles forced per attempt (0.30) and in receiving yards per route run (4.73). He is currently 22 years old.
Draft Sharks Rookie Guide: “Heidenreich doesn’t win with size, at 6’0, 198 pounds. But his tape shows adequate leg drive, contact balance, and dependable hands. He also tested better than expected with a 4.44-second 40 time and a 1.55-second 10-yard split at the NFL Combine. His receiving skill gives him a shot at low-end PPR value, even if his pro position remains unsettled.”
A Pittsburgh native, Heidenreich fell to late in the draft due to his level of competition and uncertainty around his position. He certainly could profile as additional WR and special teams depth for the Steelers or stick as a practice squad RB.
Heidenreich won’t have any redraft impact.
If Heidenreich can find some type of NFL role, he does provide some intrigue with his receiving ability. That isn’t worth rostering in dynasty yet, but you can keep an eye on him on the waiver wire.
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