Riley Nowakowski’s versatility will be his biggest asset as he looks to carve out a role in the Pittsburgh Steelers offense.
Capable of playing fullback or tight end, Nowakowski has done both at training camp. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio has taken notice.
“He’s done a good job playing tight end. He’s handled multiple roles, playing on the line, off the line in the backfield,” Angelichio said Saturday via the team’s website. “He’s capable, and you can see him getting more and more comfortable with each rep, just like with [Germie Bernard]. I’m pleased where he’s at right now as we sit in training camp.”
When he was drafted, many expected Nowakowski to fill the fullback role that Mike McCarthy has historically coveted in his offenses. Nowakowski played both fullback and tight end at Wisconsin and seems poised to play both positions in Pittsburgh, similar to the Connor Heyward role from years past.
Angelichio has a long history as a tight ends coach in the NFL, so his endorsement of Nowakowski’s ability to play tight end is something to note.
Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington are cemented as the top two tight ends on the depth chat, but after that, the position group feels up for grabs.
Veteran Robert Tonyan has impressed so far in camp and has familiarity with much of the coaching staff, which might give him the inside track for the No. 3 tight end spot. But if Nowakowski can show that he’s capable of playing tight end, while continuing to be an asset on special teams, it’s possible Pittsburgh won’t need to keep three true tight ends.
Seeing where Nowakowski lines up during the preseason games will be the first clue about the Steelers’ intentions. A versatile player like Nowakowski will afford the offense more opportunities to line up in different formations and give the opposing defense more to prepare for each week.
At this point, Nowakowski feels likely to make the 53-man roster, but as a fifth round pick, it’s never a guarantee. Excelling on special teams would be a major boost to his chances, and so far in training camp, he’s getting the opportunity.
Versatility has been a buzzword for the Steelers coaching staff. Nowakowski has been a walking Swiss army knife. That should play in his favor as training camp drags on the roster decisions need to be made.