The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed seventh-round pick Eli Heidenreich after selecting the running back/wide receiver with the 230th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Heidenreich, a Mt. Lebanon native, brings a strong local connection to the Steelers organization and returns to the Pittsburgh area after a productive college career that showcased his reliability, toughness, and versatility as a receiver. His selection late in the draft was viewed internally as a value addition with upside as a depth option and special teams contributor.
At Mt. Lebanon High School, Heidenreich was a standout athlete while leading Mt. Lebanon to the 2021 class 6A State Championship in football, before developing into a dependable college running back known for his route running and sure hands. His return to Pittsburgh adds a strong hometown storyline to the Steelers' 2026 draft class.
Navy's Eli Heidenreich (22) rushes with the ball during the Liberty Bowl game against the Cincinnati Bearcats on Jan. 2, 2026 at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tenn. — Stu Boyd / Imagn ImagesCredit: Stu Boyd II-The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
While expectations for seventh-round selections are typically centered around depth and special teams impact, the Steelers believe Heidenreich's competitive edge and unique skillset give him a chance to exceed his draft position.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Steelers Sign Mt. Lebanon's Eli Heidenreich to Rookie Contract
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