Pittsburgh Steelers newcomer Max Hurleman is out to prove that the team’s faith in him was well-placed. The versatile athlete recently expressed his deep gratitude toward general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin for giving him a shot, promising to justify their decision.
“I’m incredibly thankful to an organization like the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Hurleman told the Reading Eagle before tossing the ceremonial first pitch at a Reading Fightin Phils game. “Coach Tomlin, Mr. Rooney, Mr. Khan — I can’t thank them enough. I’m going to make sure they were right to bring me in.”
Hurleman’s college career showcased his versatility. He spent four seasons as a running back at Colgate before transferring to Notre Dame, where he shifted to cornerback and returned kicks. Now with the Steelers, he’s being used in multiple roles, currently splitting time between running back and slot receiver — though the team increasingly sees him as a wideout.
“I’ll line up wherever they need me,” Hurleman said. “I like to say my position is just ‘football player.’ I enjoy doing a bit of everything.”
A standout from Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, Hurleman walked on at Notre Dame and rose to second-team reps by season’s end. During his pro day, scouts had differing views on his future — some saw him as an offensive threat, others as a defensive asset.
In Pittsburgh, Hurleman is also contributing as a return specialist. He models his game after players like Julian Edelman — who famously switched from quarterback to receiver — as well as pass-catching backs known for their dual-threat abilities. His goal: become the next versatile weapon the Steelers didn’t know they needed.
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