Eli Heidenreich has already become one of the most talked-about rookies in Pittsburgh, but that buzz does not guarantee a spot on the 53-man roster. The Steelers are facing a real decision at running back, and the seventh-round pick could be the player squeezed out when final cuts arrive.
That possibility makes Heidenreich one of the more interesting names to watch before the regular season begins. He brings uncommon versatility, but he is entering a crowded room where established backs may have the edge.
A rookie with real upside
Heidenreich was drafted by the Steelers in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. A Pittsburgh native and former Navy Midshipman, he spent 2022 through 2025 at Navy and arrives with experience as both a running back and a receiver.
That two-way skill set is part of what makes him appealing to the Mike McCarthy-led offense. It also gives him a different profile from the more traditional options already in the backfield.
| Player | Roster Position | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Jaylen Warren | Likely roster spot | Seen as one of the backs most likely to make the team |
| Rico Dowdle | Likely roster spot | Also expected to be safe if Pittsburgh keeps three running backs |
| Kaleb Johnson | Likely roster spot | Another back considered almost guaranteed to stay |
| Eli Heidenreich | On the bubble | Could be the odd man out unless his versatility changes the decision |
Why the cut decision is so tricky
According to Steelers Wire, some believe Heidenreich could be on the roster bubble if the team carries only three running backs. In that scenario, Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, and Kaleb Johnson would be the more likely names to survive final cuts.
Still, Heidenreich is not a simple depth piece. His playmaking ability could give the Steelers a reason to keep him, especially if they want a flexible weapon who can contribute in multiple roles.
What could come next
The biggest case for Heidenreich is that his value extends beyond a standard running back job. If Pittsburgh decides his versatility is worth a roster spot, he could remain in the building and push for a larger role down the line.
For now, though, his path is tied to what the Steelers decide at the position group level. If the team trims the backfield to three, Heidenreich may need more than fan support to survive the final round of cuts.
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