Eli Heidenreich heard his name called in his hometown Saturday … and by his hometown team, realizing a dream to be drafted into the NFL.
The 2022 Mt. Lebanon graduate was selected in the seventh round with the 230th overall pick.
He was backstage waiting to hear his name and joined NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on stage as the home crowd roared with applause.
Welcome (back) home????@nflcommish | @EHeidenreich44pic.twitter.com/ru5CHSJUQK
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 25, 2026
Navy’s all-time leader in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, Heidenreich hopes to show his versatility that made him one of the most dynamic players in college football.
A running back, Heidenreich (6-foot, 198 pounds) was a second-team All-American Athletic Conference selection last season.
He led the Midshipmen with 51 catches for 941 yards and six touchdowns. Heidenreich also rushed for 499 yards and three scores.
He set school career records with 1,994 receiving yards and 16 receiving TDs.
Pittsburgh native drafted by the @Steelers in his hometown.
A dream come true for @EHeidenreich44 ????
NFL Draft on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
Stream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/HlBCUtR3LP— NFL (@NFL) April 25, 2026
At Mt. Lebanon, he earned all-state honors after leading the Blue Devils to the 2021 WPIAL and PIAA Class 6A titles and a 15-0 record, gaining 2,266 all-purpose yards with 29 touchdowns, along with 60 tackles and four interceptions.
He was a three-time all-conference performer and also a three-time letterwinner in baseball.
This story will be updated.
The Heidenreich family is ready for Day 3!#GoNavy | #RollGoatspic.twitter.com/BlGLjeWBgh
— Navy Football (@NavyFB) April 25, 2026