The Pittsburgh Steelers added depth at tight end by drafting Riley Nowakowski in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft and instantly signing USC tight end Lake McRee as an undrafted free agent. McRee, an All-Big Ten selection last season with a career-high 30 receptions, 450 receiving yards, and four touchdowns, totaled 97 catches for 1,154 yards and seven touchdowns over five college seasons with the Trojans. The move emphasizes the Steelers’ interest in versatile pass-catching options at the tight end position beyond their draft picks.
Key highlights:
– McRee earned All-Big Ten honors in 2025 and had 80 catches across the last three seasons.
– In 2025, he set personal bests with 30 receptions, 450 yards, and four touchdowns.
– The Steelers’ strategy includes adding reliable receiving options at tight end to bolster the offense after the draft.
Key Takeaways:
– The Steelers are expanding their tight end group with both a draft pick and an undrafted free agent signing.
– Lake McRee brings collegiate production and experience as a pass-catching tight end to complement the team’s developing roster.
