Eli Heidenreich

Heidenreich was a Swiss army knife weapon for Navy. He finishes his collegiate career with 1,157 rushing yards (no more than 77 carries or 499 rushing yards in any season). In 2025, he also had 79 targets, 18.5 yards per reception, and 941 receiving yards. In 2025, Heidenreich spent 44.3% of his snaps in the backfield, 14.7% of them in the slot, and 32.9% as a perimeter wide receiver. His eventual home in the NFL is likely as a slot receiver. When utilized as a backfield/rushing option, it was as a motion player or getting him to the perimeter with toss plays. He didn't operate with a heavy dose of traditional running back usage in the rushing department. As a receiver, he has legit route-running chops, and he can win from the perimeter. He has a serviceable release package, but he'll need to continue to add to that tool belt and refine his footwork to work on the boundary. As a slot option, Heidenreich can already win against zone. He has a decent understanding of pacing against zone coverage and leverage. Dynasty Outlook: The Navy standout and Pittsburgh native was selected by his hometown team in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Heidenreich has the raw athletic upside and versatility to squint and see a potential starting NFL slot receiver a few years down the road if everything works out in his favor. The chances of it coming to fruition are slim, so don't overspend in any rookie draft. He's a third or fourth round dart throw/taxi squad option only.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected RB Eli Heidenreich with the No. 230 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Fantasy Impact

Heidenreich played at Navy and concluded his career with 1,440 combined rushing and receiving yards in his senior season. He lined up primarily as a wing back in Navy's offense, so he didn't do a lot of running between the tackles. Heidenreich does have very good hands as a receiver, catching 51 passes for 941 yards last season for the Midshipmen. He'll provide depth at running back for the Steelers.