The Pittsburgh Steelers could have a difficult time finding snaps for seventh-round running back Eli Heidenreich. The rookie is one of six running backs on the team’s offseason roster and will enter offseason workouts clearly behind the team’s top three backs.
But based on head coach Mike McCarthy’s first comments on Heidenreich after the Steelers selected him on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Navy product will have an opportunity to carve out a role.
It could even be a role that other Steelers offensive players won’t have a chance to earn.
“I have a lot of respect for what he’s done the last four years,” McCarthy said on Heidenreich to reporters Saturday. “We talk about how many downs a player plays. Does he play all four downs, his ability to play multiple positions?
“I think Eli definitely brings that to the table.
“I met with [Brian] Angelichio briefly earlier; I think we’re going to open up the playbook a little bit.”
The Steelers grabbed Heidenreich with their last selection of the 2026 NFL Draft. That was No. 230 overall in the seventh round.
Heidenreich starred at Navy for three seasons. In 2025, he posted 1,440 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns.
Prior to that, Heidenreich played high school football at Mt. Lebanon High School. That’s located in Pittsburgh’s South Hills about seven miles from Acrisure Stadium.
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