The Pittsburgh Steelers selected former Wisconsin fullback and tight end Riley Nowakowski in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL draft on Saturday.
The Steelers made Nowakowski the draft’s No. 169 overall selection. Via Indiana, he was the second former Badger selected.
Nowakowski played for Wisconsin from 2020-24. After starting his career at linebacker, he moved to fullback for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, and then to tight end in 2024. He appeared in 39 total games as a Badger and recorded 18 receptions for 131 yards and one touchdown.
The Milwaukee, Wisconsin, native transferred to Indiana for his final season of eligibility last offseason. He helped lead the Hoosiers to the national title, appearing in all 16 games and recording 32 catches for 387 yards and four total touchdowns.
The Steelers listed the versatile offensive playmaker as a fullback after his selection. He’ll work to make an early impact at the position as new coach Mike McCarthy reshapes the franchise.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Pittsburgh Steelers select former Wisconsin tight end in NFL draft
Reporting by Ben Kenney, Badgers Wire / Badgers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
