Eli Heidenreich, selected as the final pick by the Steelers, showcases promising athleticism with versatility as both a running back and wide receiver. Draft analyst Mike Renner emphasizes Heidenreich's potential, citing favorable comparisons to All-Pro Christian McCaffrey. Despite skepticism about Heidenreich's transition from Navy to the NFL, Renner believes he has unique developmental potential that makes him a valuable asset for Pittsburgh. The Steelers have only a few guaranteed running backs on their roster, which may allow Heidenreich to carve out a role unbound by positional constraints.

By the Numbers
  • Eli Heidenreich was the 230th pick in the NFL Draft, making him the final selection.
  • He plays both running back and wide receiver, highlighting his versatility in a running back class lacking in receiving skills.
State of Play
  • The Steelers currently have only two running backs, Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, assured of a spot on the roster.
  • Heidenreich's unique skill set allows for flexibility in roster construction and potential utility in various positions.
What's Next

As Heidenreich joins the Steelers, he will need to prove himself in training camp and preseason games. His performance will be critical in determining whether he can secure a regular-season roster spot amidst competition from other running backs and multi-positional players.

Bottom Line

Eli Heidenreich presents an intriguing opportunity for the Steelers and could redefine expectations for late-round picks. While his transition to the NFL will be challenging, his multi-faceted skill set and favorable projections could be key to a successful career.