The Steelers had sort of a revolving door of return men during the 2025 season. They relied heavily on their running backs to return kickoffs, which is simply not very practical given the injury risk that kickoffs have. The punt returning was largely handled by Calvin Austin when he was healthy, however, Austin signed with the New York Giants in free agency. Now, the Steelers aren’t hiding that they will make an effort to acquire a full-time return man in the 2026 NFL Draft.
During his media availability
on Friday, Steelers special teams coordinator Danny Crossman did not hide his interest in adding a return man to the team during next week’s draft, as reported by Nick Farabaurgh of Penn Live. Crossman said there were lots of options he viewed as “high upside” players. He also provided what exactly he is looking for in a return man.
“It’s catch, run, cut. You see guys cut on air before they catch the ball. But that’s not what we want to do. And there’s an element of fearlessness to it.”
With 12 picks in the draft, it would make all the sense in the world for the Steelers to bring in a potential return man with one of their late-round picks. Kick and punt returner has been an underrated need for the Steelers.
Based on Pittsburgh’s pre-draft visitors, it is apparent they have done their homework on some guys that could be viable options for the Steelers. Kentucky wide receiver Kendrick Law is the name that sticks out. Law was most productive when given opportunities to make things happen after the catch in college. He also provided a spark for the Wildcats on special teams as a return man.
With seven picks on day three, be ready for the Steelers to add a weapon to their special teams.
What do you think of the Steelers potentially adding a return man through the draft? Join the BTSC community and let us know in the comments below!
