All articles tagged with #rookie surprises
The Steelers kept all three surprising rookies on their 53-man roster, including Eli Heidenreich, despite talk that another team might poach him after cutdown day. No waivers were claimed, and veterans were moved to the practice squad. Heidenreich’s versatility and standout special-teams work helped cement his spot, with some chatter that a different team could have claimed him had he been waived.
Denver’s 2026 draft and free-agent haul leave Week 1 projections largely unchanged, with Bo Nix under center and a veteran-heavy offensive line and receiver corps led by Sutton, Waddle, and Franklin (No. 3 WR to be decided in camp). Rookies aren’t expected to start unless injuries strike, though Onyedim could push for time at defensive end and a few defenders could factor in behind Brandon Jones if he isn’t fully healthy. Special teams changes are minimal, aside from a potential long-snapper competition with Luke Basso.