The Pittsburgh Steelers may have unfortunately lost out on the Connor Heyward sweepstakes in 2026 free agency, but they just signed his replacement to a rookie deal at minicamp.
On Saturday, the Steelers announced the signing of 2026 fifth-round tight end/fullback hybrid Riley Nowakowski to a rookie contract.
We have signed FB Riley Nowakowski. @BordasLaw
đ: https://t.co/y4WjIAHcjspic.twitter.com/K1NcIdzZXV
â Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 9, 2026
Nowakowski, selected by the Steelers with the 169th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, played at Wisconsin from 2020 to 2024 before transferring to Indiana for the 2025 season.
A capable special teams contributor who can line up at tight end or fullback as an elite blocker, Nowakowski is a welcomed addition to Pittsburghâs roster.
As rookie minicamp continues on, we at Steelers Wire will provide any relevant updates on the teamâs 2026 class, including the four unsigned rookies.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage of any offseason moves, including full rookie minicamp coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers sign Riley Nowakowski to rookie contract at minicamp