One of the standout emotional stories of the 2026 Draft weekend in Pittsburgh is when Eli Heidenreich was selected by the Steelers, with the 230th overall pick in the seventh round.
Eli, a graduate of Mt. Lebanon High School, broke down in tears upon hearing his name called.
He was greeted with loud applause and waved a Terrible Towel after stepping on stage.
He tells Marty Griffin on KDKA Radio the whole thing seemed surreal.
“I’ve had to pinch myself a few times these last few days and I think the big thing for me is just, take a step back and think about how much work’s gone into this, I’m just thankful for the opportunity,” said Heidenreich. “But, I think the big thing, don’t dwell on it too long, it’s just an opportunity, like I said, so, the work really is just beginning. I’m ready to get after it.”
Eli joins the Steelers after a decorated career in the U.S. Navy.
