Pittsburgh Steelers 2026 NFL Draft grades: RB Eli Heidenreich

TL;DR

The Pittsburgh Steelers received high grades for selecting RB Eli Heidenreich in the 2026 NFL Draft, with analysts praising his athleticism and versatility. Heidenreich holds Navy's records for receiving yards and touchdowns, indicating strong potential for the team.

Key points

Eli Heidenreich holds Navy's records for receiving yards and touchdowns
Heidenreich was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2026 NFL Draft
Analysts graded Heidenreich's selection as A to A++
Heidenreich is expected to play running back and slot receiver
Heidenreich had over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2025

Mentioned in this story

Naval Academy

Eli HeidenreichPittsburgh SteelersNFL Draft 2026

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - NOVEMBER 27: Eli Heidenreich #22 of the Navy Midshipmen carries the ball during the second half against the Memphis Tigers at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on November 27, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Mike Nicastro: This pick is much more than just a feel good story. It’s not a hand out. Heidenreich is a better prospect than the Steelers fourth round pick, Wetjen, and I candidly thought he’d been long gone by now. He holds the most receiving yards and receiving TDS in Navy history – and can play both wideout and running back. Of course he’ll play a factor on special teams as well. If I were a betting man, I would bet on this guy finding a way to make the team – because that’s just what he’s always done. Grade: A++

Ryland Bickley: Look, the Christian McCaffrey comparisons are always going to be rich, but there’s no denying the upside of Eli Heidenreich. He’s uber athletic and managed over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2025 — including 971 receiving yards in Navy’s offense! Seventh-round picks, especially in this year’s thin draft, are essentially priority undrafted free agents, and Heidenreich is the type of guy you want to bring into camp as a dart throw. He’s a weapon, and you can figure out his place in an NFL offense now that he’s on the roster. – Grade: A

Joey Bray: What an exclamation point for the Steelers to end their selections in their city. Ryland and Mike said it best but I have to say it again, the upside is truly unlimited with this kid. He played running back and slot receiver in college and holds the record for the most receicing touchdowns in a single season at the Naval Academy with. Heindenreich said at the combine that he believes people discount his initial burst once he gets the ball, and I couldn’t agree more. This guy is pure lightning in a bottle with the ball in his hands. Even if he ends up being nothing more than a gadget guy, it’s impressive to get someone with his upside this late in the draft.

Q&A

What are Eli Heidenreich's college football achievements?

Eli Heidenreich holds the records for the most receiving yards and receiving touchdowns in Navy history.

How did analysts grade Eli Heidenreich's draft selection?

Analysts gave Heidenreich grades ranging from A to A++, highlighting his athleticism and potential impact on the Steelers.

What position will Eli Heidenreich play for the Steelers?

Eli Heidenreich is expected to play as a running back and can also contribute as a wide receiver and on special teams.

Why is Eli Heidenreich considered a valuable pick in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Heidenreich is seen as a valuable pick due to his impressive college performance, including over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2025, and his potential as a versatile offensive weapon.