2026 NFL Draft•Steelers News•Steelers Transactions
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially signed fourth-round pick Kaden Wetjen after selecting, and in the eyes of some analysts and fans, reaching for, the former Iowa standout with the 121st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
According to the team, Wetjen signed a four-year deal. The terms of the contract were not released, but Over the Cap projects it to be worth $4.38 million in salary, with a $1.15 million signing bonus.
Wetjen arrives in Pittsburgh as one of the most accomplished return specialists in recent college football history. During his time at Iowa, he totaled over 1,200 career return yards and scored 6 return touchdowns, consistently flipping field position and providing instant momentum for the Hawkeyes. His explosiveness in the return game also earned him one of the highest special teams evaluations in the country, highlighted by a PFF return grade of 95.0, one of the highest ever recorded by the outlet for a return specialist.
Pittsburgh has placed a growing emphasis on special teams value and field position in recent seasons, and Wetjen fits that mold immediately. He is expected to compete right away for both punt and kickoff return duties, with a realistic path to earning an immediate game-day role.
Wetjen report for rookie minicamp on Friday and will take part in offseason workouts as he begins his NFL career in Pittsburgh, where his return ability could quickly translate into meaningful snaps.
He is the first of the team’s 10 picks from the 2026 NFL Draft to sign with the club.
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