Entering the NFL as a rookie is never easy, and earning a starting role with the Pittsburgh Steelers makes making an immediate impact even more difficult. The team has added 10 rookies following the NFL Draft, each facing a different path.
Some may not survive final roster cuts, while others could exceed expectations and push for meaningful roles.
Carving out a role will not be easy for late-round picks or rookies facing crowded depth charts. That said, it is not out of the question for players with lower expectations to rise quickly and earn significant roles. While fans may not expect much from this group, they have the potential to prove otherwise and make an immediate impact.
Pittsburgh Steelers could have several unexpected rookies play a vital role this season
Eli Heidenreich
He was the team’s final selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, but the Pittsburgh native could still carve out a meaningful role. Eli Heidenreich offers versatility as both a running back and a wide receiver, which could make him a viable replacement for the role Kenneth Gainwell filled last season.
He must first earn a spot on the roster, but there is a clear path for him to make an immediate impact as a rookie.
Daylen Everette
Few expect Daylen Everette to see significant playing time with so many defensive backs ahead of him on the depth chart, but that could change quickly. If an injury occurs in the cornerback group, Everette could emerge as the next option. He offers the versatility needed to succeed in multiple roles, making him an intriguing under-the-radar player despite being a third-round pick.
Kaden Wetjen
Not many people were fans of the Kaden Wetjen selection in the fourth round of the draft. It still feels like a reach, but that perception will quickly fade if he proves to be an effective returner. Wetjen stood out on special teams at Iowa, and if he can also contribute as a reliable role player on offense, he could be set for a strong rookie season.
Robert Spears-Jennings
He was considered a solid value pick in the draft, but Robert Spears-Jennings still has a long way to go to enter the roster conversation.
Depending on how the Steelers view Jalen Ramsey’s position, the team will likely keep four or five safeties. Spears-Jennings will need to compete with Sebastian Castro and others to secure a spot. As a seventh-round pick, he could make an early impact on special teams and grow his role.
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