Seventh-round rookie safety Robert Spears-Jennings has logged just one NFL defensive snap this 2026 season, but he is already tearing it up on special teams. He’s racked up an incredible seven tackles in that phase of the game through the first two weeks of the regular season, a number that leads the entire NFL. Seriously, no other player even has more than five. This kid, one of the Steelers’ final selections in their 10-man draft class this year, is making an immediate, undeniable impact.
The “No Plays Off” Mindset That Changes Everything
You want to talk about effort? Spears-Jennings is it. This 6’2″, 205-pound safety ran a blistering 4.32-second 40-yard dash at the 2026 NFL Combine, and that raw athleticism, combined with his relentless motor, is making him a nightmare for NFL returners. Steelers special teams coach Danny Crossman couldn’t praise the Oklahoma product enough when speaking to the media on Monday. Crossman highlighted the scouting department and coaches for identifying him, but more importantly, he pointed to Spears-Jennings’ “great mindset.” The rookie came in ready to “buy in” to whatever role he got and commit to being “an exceptional player at whatever we asked him to do.” That’s the kind of dedication that gets you noticed, even without defensive snaps.
Making Plays Out of Thin Air
Crossman kept pouring on the praise, emphasizing how Spears-Jennings’ effort shines through, regardless of his limited time on defense. The coach said the rookie is “finding ways to make plays a lot of ways.” We’re talking point of attack tackles, redirecting plays, and even getting up off the ground after being knocked down to get back into the action. Crossman is “really happy with where he is” and believes they’ve “got a good player right there,” looking forward to his continued development. That’s some serious confidence from a coach in an early-season rookie. It really shows what kind of spark Spears-Jennings is providing this team.
This weekend, keep an eye on Robert Spears-Jennings. He’s already set a high bar, leading the league in special teams tackles, and every snap he takes is a chance to prove that this seventh-round pick is a foundational piece in the making. The Steelers also have their final 2026 draft pick, running back Eli Heidenreich, contributing on special teams. Heidenreich had a 26-yard kick return on Sunday against the Patriots and Crossman sees him as a good player too, saying he’s doing a good job blocking and finding seams with the ball. While Heidenreich hasn’t shown the “instant gratification” of Spears-Jennings, both these young guys are clearly making their mark and building something for the future.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Behind the Steel Curtain.
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