# Riley Nowakowski

NFL prospect. Position: **Fullback / H-Back**. College: **Indiana**.

## Quick Facts

- **Position:** Fullback / H-Back
- **College:** University of Indiana (2025 national champion)
- **Awards:** Second-Team All-Big Ten (2025)
- **Draft projection:** Day 2-3 (scheme-specific, fullback run)
- **NFL Comp:** Connor Heyward (Pittsburgh Steelers, scheme-specific H-back)

## 2026 Outlook

Nowakowski is a passing-game specialist fullback who excels in receiving roles, making him particularly valuable for Kyler Murray's proven preference for checkdown passes. Caught 32 passes for 387 yards and two TDs in 2025 for the national champion Hoosiers, showcasing elite hands and route-running for the position. His skill set could ease the transition for a Vikings offense adjusting to Murray's playstyle and new offensive coordination. Projected as a scheme-specific H-back in the NFL rather than a traditional fullback, given his elite receiving skills and smaller frame. Multi-dimensional player with solid blocking ability but excels in pass-catching roles. (per How Will the Vikings Replace C.J. Ham? - Zone Coverage)

## College Performance

- **Receiving:** 32 catches, 387 yards, 2 TDs (2025)
- **Routes:** Solid route-runner, good hands
- **Blocking:** Capable, but not elite like true lead blockers
- **Leadership:** Part of 2025 national championship team

## Role / Depth Chart

Projected as an H-back / pass-catching fullback; better fit in receiving-heavy schemes than traditional lead-blocking roles.

## Injury Status

None reported.

## Open Questions

- Can his college receiving production translate to the NFL with limited target share as a fullback?
- Will he thrive in Vikings' potential system change with new OC and Kyler Murray?

## Sources

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Source: https://chatffb.com/players/riley-nowakowski · ChatFFB — fantasy football answers updated from a live news wiki.