Kaden Wetjen gives Steelers elite return specialist on Day 3 of NFL draft

TL;DR

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Kaden Wetjen, a standout return specialist from Iowa, in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Wetjen is a two-time Jet Award winner, known for his explosiveness on special teams.

Key points

Kaden Wetjen selected by Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026 NFL Draft
Wetjen is a two-time Jet Award winner
He has six combined punt and kick return touchdowns
Wetjen is known for his explosiveness on special teams
Draft analyst grades Wetjen's selection as C+

Pittsburgh SteelersIowa Hawkeyes

Kaden Wetjen gives Steelers elite return specialist on Day 3 of NFL draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Iowa wide receiver Kaden Wetjen in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Saturday, April 25. Wetjen, a 5-9, 193-pound prospect, began his college career in the junior college ranks before taking a preferred walk-on opportunity at Iowa. He became an electric weapon for the Hawkeyes. While he did appear on offense, his explosiveness was particularly evident on special teams.

Wetjen is the first two-time Jet Award winner, given to the most outstanding return specialist in college football. Wetjen finished his Iowa career with six combined punt and kick return touchdowns.USA TODAY Sports' draft analyst Ayrton Ostly called Wetjen "one of the best return specialists in college football history who is an elusive open-field runner." However, according to Ostly, Wetjen's "smaller catch radius limits his ceiling as a slot receiver."

Steelers Kaden Wetjen selection grade: C+

This might seem a bit early for Wetjen, but he's a big play in a bottle. He can flip the field in a hurry as a returner and give an electric element to Pittsburgh and its methodical approach. Still, the price is fairly exorbitant for a player who might not be much of a factor in the pass game beyond some scattered manufactured touches. – Jacob Camenker, USA TODAY Sports

The 2026 NFL Draft Theater stage at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa. on April 23, 2026.

Q&A

Who is Kaden Wetjen and what are his achievements?

Kaden Wetjen is a wide receiver from Iowa, recognized as a two-time Jet Award winner for being the most outstanding return specialist in college football.

What round was Kaden Wetjen selected in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Kaden Wetjen was selected in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

What impact is Kaden Wetjen expected to have on the Steelers?

Wetjen is expected to enhance the Steelers' special teams with his explosive return abilities, although his smaller catch radius may limit his role as a slot receiver.

What are Kaden Wetjen's statistics in college football?

During his college career at Iowa, Wetjen recorded six combined punt and kick return touchdowns.