The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Indiana fullback Riley Nowakowski with the 169th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to an April 26 announcement. The team acquired this pick after trading their 161st and 249th selections to the Kansas City Chiefs for the 169th and a sixth-round pick at number 210.
Nowakowski was surrounded by family and friends during the draft. “It was just a very emotional moment, just all the hard work that’s gone in throughout the years, all these people here that have supported me throughout the year,” said Nowakowski. “Just being able to celebrate with them and hear my name called is definitely something special.”
During his final season at Indiana, Nowakowski appeared in all sixteen games, recording thirty-two receptions for three hundred eighty-seven yards and two touchdowns out of the backfield. He also rushed twice for two yards, both resulting in touchdowns. Reflecting on his versatility, he said: “I’ve been used almost everywhere. I played fullback, I played inline tight end, did a lot of H-back work too. I’ve done a little bit of everything, and I think that is extremely helpful because I feel comfortable in any position.” He added: “I would say I’m a physical, relentless, just blue collar, gritty guy… I’m going to go in there and I’m going to give everything I’ve got every day.”
Steelers running backs coach Ramon Chinyoung Sr. commented on Nowakowski’s playing style: “He’s shown on tape that he has an ability to navigate through the backfield… But the young man plays with grit. At the end of the day, it’s all about will… He’s done a lot of great things on tape. He’s growing as a backfield blocker. I can’t wait to get to work with him.” Nowakowski transferred from Wisconsin before his standout year at Indiana.
The Steelers are known for honoring figures such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene through their Hall of Honor according to their official website. The franchise has achieved six Super Bowl championships as reported by their official website and contributes actively to community engagement through historical celebrations as outlined by their official website. The Hall of Honor Museum at Acrisure Stadium displays artifacts commemorating team history according to their official website. Recognition for multiple Super Bowl wins is also highlighted alongside inductions into its Hall of Honor as per their official website. The Steelers are affiliated with the National Football League as a member franchise based on information from their official website.
Looking ahead, both player and coaching staff expressed anticipation about integrating Nowakowski into future plans.
