Wetjen marks Steelers debut with first NFL touchdown in preseason opener
The former Iowa Hawkeye return specialist recorded 79 receiving yards and five special teams returns during the team’s opening preseason match.
Pittsburgh Steelers fourth-round draft pick Kaden Wetjen scored his first professional touchdown during the team's preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night. The former Iowa Hawkeye return specialist finished with two receptions for a game-high 79 yards and a touchdown, along with five special teams returns.
Quarterback Drew Allar threw the touchdown pass to Wetjen on the Steelers' next drive after a 75-yard reception earlier in the third quarter. The scoring play came after the offense drove down the field to a first-and-goal situation at the Green Bay 5-yard line, where Allar rolled to his left to find the wide-open receiver.
Wetjen, who established himself as a return specialist at Iowa, was a two-time Jet Award winner and Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year. He was selected by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft and made his professional debut following a long offseason.
In addition to the touchdown, Wetjen contributed on special teams with three kick returns for 61 yards and two punt returns for 10 yards. His performance included a significant 75-yard gain on an in-route pass from Allar, which saw him scamper down the sidelines before the subsequent scoring drive.
The Steelers, who have playoff aspirations, utilized Wetjen’s dual-threat capabilities in their opening preseason contest. His debut showcased his ability to impact the game through both offensive receptions and special teams play, introducing him to the Pittsburgh fan base.
Allar also added a passing touchdown to his statline during the match, completing eight of ten passes for 143 yards. The game served as the Steelers' first preseason test, with Wetjen’s touchdown marking a notable highlight for the new draft pick.
The performance highlighted Wetjen’s potential role within the Steelers’ roster, building on his collegiate success where he found the end zone regularly. His ability to generate big plays on both offense and special teams was evident in his game-high receiving yardage and consistent return metrics.
