Mike McCarthy confirms Eli Heidenreich earned Steelers roster spot on special teams
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 11:12 PM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed that rookie running back Eli Heidenreich secured a final roster spot primarily due to his special teams contributions. Heidenreich, a seventh-round draft pick out of Navy, competed against several players to fill the team's third running back position. McCarthy noted that the rookie's development within special teams units was a prerequisite for his inclusion on the 53-man roster. While Heidenreich provided service as a runner during the preseason, his current role allows him to refine his offensive skills while maintaining his core responsibilities on special teams. Both the coach and the player have been subjects of local attention as hometown figures joining the organization. The team now shifts focus toward collective progress and meeting seasonal objectives.
- •Eli Heidenreich earned the third running back spot on the Steelers 53-man roster.
- •Mike McCarthy cited special teams play as the primary factor for the roster selection.
- •Heidenreich was selected in the seventh round of the draft following a career at Navy.
- •The Steelers retained all 10 of their rookie draft picks for the final roster.
- 11:12 PMYahoo Sports — Mike McCarthy Sends Clear Message on Eli Heidenreich’s Path to a Steelers Roster Spot
"The Pittsburgh Steelers retained all 10 rookie draft members on their 53-man roster, Eli Heidenreich who made the last selection. Heidenreich ousted a tough battle to make the final cut. But he did make it, after beating out several players for the third and final running back spot. Head Coach Mike McCarthy has now opened […] The post Mike McCarthy Sends Clear Message on Eli Heidenreich’s Path to a Steelers Roster Spot appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
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