Hometown Hero: Heidenreich's Steelers Debut

0:00On April 27, Pittsburgh Steelers fans listen up. Their 2026 NFL Draft Class took some heat, but NFL Network's Brian Baldinger sees a seventh-round steel in Eli Hydenreich picked that. Number 230. He thinks this Navy slot back could step in for Kenneth Gainwell. The team's 2025 MVP, who bolted to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free, agency. Gainwell was a beast last year, leading Pittsburgh with 73 catches, 537 rushing yards, and five touchdowns. He brought that versatile spark as a receiver and runner. Now the Steelers need someone to fill that gap without expecting a full clone from a late-round guy. Hydenreich grew up right here in Pittsburgh, starring in Mountain. Levonon High School where he dropped 29 touchdowns and led them to a state title in class 6A back in 2021. At Navy, he crushed it too, topping their all-time lists with 1194 receiving yards and 16 scores. The do's got that same

1:02multi-tool vibe. Last season, he hauled in 51 passes for 941 yards and six touchdowns, a program record, while rushing for 400. 99 yards and three more scores. Second team all conference as a wide-out. Only time will tell if Hydenreich lights it up in black and gold, but with the whole city behind their hometown kid, he's got a shot to quiet, though. Daughters and plug that Gainwell