Steadfast is the best word to describe the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. If anything, the pace has only intensified as Mike McCarthy’s team works through OTAs. This is the first opportunity for the new coaching staff to implement its vision for the upcoming season. It is where systems are introduced, roles begin to form, and overlooked names start forcing their way into conversations.
And one name already becoming impossible to ignore is Riley Nowakowski.
The Steelers’ fifth-round draft pick (No. 169) was quietly one of my favorite selections by Omar Khan’s front office during the 2026 NFL Draft. Not because he arrived with overwhelming hype or flashy headlines. But his skillset felt like something Pittsburgh genuinely needed. He is a versatile athlete with legitimate experience doing the dirty work.
And every successful football team needs players willing to embrace that role.
At Indiana, Nowakowski’s contributions during the Hoosiers’ National Championship season were undeniable. He was not just a body thrown into the formation to absorb contact. He became a weapon. As a lead blocker, he helped create rushing lanes and set the tone physically. As a pass catcher, he quietly produced 32 receptions for 387 receiving yards.
Versatility matters, especially in an offense trying to become less predictable. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio sees it too.
Throughout OTAs, the rookie has reportedly lined up in the slot and in the backfield on multiple occasions. That is not by accident. I am convinced it's an intentional design. Pittsburgh is exploring how to weaponize his unique traits before the regular season even arrives.
And honestly, it is refreshing.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must prepare Riley Nowakowski to become a key offensive contributor
For the last few seasons, the Steelers flirted with hybrid offensive roles but never fully unlocked them. Connor Heyward was often utilized as a movable chess piece under previous systems, but it frequently felt like Pittsburgh was forcing the concept rather than maximizing the player. Sure, Heyward had utility, but it often felt like a patch instead of a purpose-built plan.
Nowakowski feels different.
He looks like a player built specifically for this type of role rather than someone learning it on the fly. He can be a legitimate lead blocker in physical formations while also creating mismatches as a slot option. That dual-threat flexibility could quietly become one of the more interesting wrinkles in Pittsburgh’s offense.
And let’s be honest, this offense may need exactly that.
With Aaron Rodgers’ age remaining a lingering concern, Angelichio and McCarthy cannot construct an offense that depends entirely on quarterback heroics. Rodgers can still sling the football, but Pittsburgh still must establish control at the line of scrimmage and exude physical football.
Rookies rarely become immediate difference-makers, especially fifth-round selections. The NFL has a way of humbling even the most promising prospects. But early OTA usage tells us something important. Pittsburgh is not treating Nowakowski like a developmental afterthought.
Instead, they are actively searching for ways to get him involved.
I believe the rookie has a chance to become a vital piece of Pittsburgh’s offensive success this season. Not as a stat-sheet star, but as a glue player every contender leans on.
For now, his mission is simple. Stay focused and absorb everything.
Because if these early OTA glimpses are any indication, Riley Nowakowski may be carving out his role much faster than anyone expected.
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