Pittsburgh Steelers analyze Riley Nowakowski's potential rookie impact
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 6:00 PM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026
The Pittsburgh Steelers are spotlighting rookie fullback Riley Nowakowski as the 2026 season approaches. Drafted in the fifth round, Nowakowski, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 250 pounds, will aim to take on a fullback-tight end hybrid role following Connor Heyward's departure. He brings collegiate experience from Wisconsin and Indiana, where he excelled as a blocker. The Steelers expect to utilize Nowakowski frequently throughout his rookie season.
- •Riley Nowakowski played college football at Wisconsin and Indiana.
- •He was drafted by the Steelers in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
- •Nowakowski is expected to fill the role left by Connor Heyward.
- •The Steelers plan to use him in a hybrid fullback-tight end role.
- •He has a strong background in blocking from his college career.
- 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers roster spotlight: What can fans expect from Riley Nowakowski's rookie season?
"As the Pittsburgh Steelers move closer to the 2026 season, we’re taking a closer look at every player on the roster, with FB Riley Nowakowski up next.
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