NFL
NFL Draft: Steelers select running back with Christian McCaffrey comp
Steelers select Navy running back Eli Heidenreich in 2026 NFL Draft
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NFL
Why Steelers' Eli Heidenreich is perfect pick of entire 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
Eli Heidenreich, a Pittsburgh native, was selected as the 230th pick by the Steelers in the 2026 NFL Draft. He previously won a state championship with Mt. Lebanon.
Key points
- Eli Heidenreich is a Pittsburgh native.
- He was selected 230th overall by the Steelers.
- He won a state championship with Mt. Lebanon.
Mentioned in this story
Eli HeidenreichPittsburgh
Mt. LebanonPittsburgh Steelers2026 NFL Draft
Why Steelers' Eli Heidenreich is perfect pick of entire 2026 NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Eli Heidenreich is going home.
The Pittsburgh native is the Steelers' newest draft pick.
He had to wait around a while in Pittsburgh on Saturday, not getting picked until the 230th pick in the seventh round. But it was worth it.
Heidenreich won a state championship with Mt. Lebanon in the Pittsburgh area.
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After starring for the Naval Academy, he has joined the Steelers, his childhood favorite. He walked out onto the stage with a Terrible Towel, even. He was ready.
In Navy's throwback offense, Heidenreich did a bit of everything.
In 2025, he ran 77 times for 499 yards (6.5 yards per carry) in 2025 and also set Navy records by catching 51 passes for 941 yards. He scored nine offensive touchdowns.
Heidenreich ran the 40-yard dash in an impressiveĀ 4.44 seconds**.**
He measured up at 6-feet tall and 198 pounds. He also did the vertical jump at 35.5 inches.
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Q&A
Who is Eli Heidenreich and why was he drafted by the Steelers?
Eli Heidenreich is a Pittsburgh native and the Steelers' latest draft pick, chosen 230th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his impressive local achievements.
What round was Eli Heidenreich picked in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Eli Heidenreich was picked in the seventh round as the 230th overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
What notable achievements does Eli Heidenreich have?
Eli Heidenreich won a state championship with Mt. Lebanon in the Pittsburgh area before being drafted by the Steelers.