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 Apr. 26 announcement.
This draft decision is part of ongoing efforts by the Steelers, a National Football League member franchise, to strengthen their roster and build on their legacy of success according to the official website. The team acquired Nowakowski after trading their original fifth-round (161st) and seventh-round (249th) picks to the Kansas City Chiefs for the 169th overall pick and a sixth-round (210th) selection.
Nowakowski described his reaction to being drafted as deeply meaningful. “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.” He added about his playing style: “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.”
In his final collegiate season at Indiana after transferring from Wisconsin, Nowakowski started all 16 games in 2025 with notable statistics: he recorded 32 receptions for 387 yards and two touchdowns as well as two carries—both resulting in touchdowns. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from conference media and third-team honors from coaches during this period.
Running backs coach Ramon Chinyoung Sr. spoke about Nowakowski’s qualities: “He’s shown on tape that he has an ability to navigate through the backfield,” said Chinyoung Sr. “But the young man plays with grit. At the end of the day, it’s all about will. You’ve got to be willing to go hunt.” Chinyoung Sr. continued: “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.”
The Steelers’ selection adds another chapter to their storied history marked by six Super Bowl championships according to their official website. The organization also maintains strong community engagement through celebrations like its Hall of Honor as outlined on its official website and showcases memorabilia at its Hall of Honor Museum located at Acrisure Stadium according to information provided by the team.
As Nowakowski joins one of football’s most recognized franchises—honored for both athletic achievement and community involvement—the team continues its tradition not only through player acquisitions but also via historical recognition programs as detailed on its official site. Observers will watch how this new addition contributes both on field performance and upholds club values moving forward.
