Steelers sign Bethel Park product
Nick Kwiatkoski’s football career has come full circle.
The 30-year-old Bethel Park native excelled on defense for the Black Hawks, and, on June 19, the 6-2, 242-pound linebacker signed a contract to play for his hometown team, the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“I grew up a Steelers fan,” Kwiatkoski said. “So obviously this is an awesome opportunity for me. I am excited.”
Kwiatkoski’s former scholastic coach is thrilled, too. Jeff Metheny served as the Bethel Park coach during Kwiatkoski’s career. The Black Hawks won a WPIAL title in 2008 and in 2009 they reached the district semifinals with Kwiatkoski as a safety and wide receiver.
“Nick was such a hard-working young man. Respectful. Lot of talent,” said Metheny.
Though he missed much of his senior season to a back injury, Kwiatoski finished as a top-32 player on the Rivals.com list. The three-year starter also gained a scholarship to West Virginia University.
In his final two years, he started in all 13 games and ranked among the top tacklers in the Big 12. As a Mountaineer, he amassed 205 solo and 98 assisted tackles with six interceptions, three forced fumbles and 28 tackles for loss.
“Nick was in between a skill guy and a big skill guy and WVU recruited him,” Metheny said. “I wanted him to go there. I hoped it would turn out for him but I had no idea he would turn it into what he did.”
Kwiatkoski parlayed his collegiate career into a professional gig. In 2016, he was selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft by Chicago. He played four seasons with the Bears before going to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2020. Last year, he played for the Atlanta Falcons.
In 89 NFL games, Kwiatkoski had 34 starts, 293 tackles, seven sacks, 12 pass deflections and two interceptions.
“Nick had some rough times but he was determined to make it. He stuck with it and made good,” Metheny said. “It’s been a dream come true for him to play professional football. I’m happy for him. It’s such a hard life playing a professional sport.
“Nick has handled himself well. He’s always been nice and cordial and very generous,” said Metheny, noting how Kwiatkoski quietly donated the funds to renovate the BP football locker room and returns to speak to the players during training sessions.
Metheny predicts further success for Kwiatkoski. After a successful tryout during minicamp, Kwiatkoski was signed and invited to training camp this summer with the expectations of making the roster.
“I wouldn’t count him out,” Metheny said. “Nick is intelligent and he works hard. He’s done well as a professional and he has a lot of experience. He can play the pass well and still plays the run. At this level, sometimes you need a little luck and you have to stay healthy. He’s been able to do that and stay on the field.”
At age 30, this might be the last hurrah for Kwiatkoski.
“Coming home in what could be your last stop is a dream come true,” Metheny said. “I’m pleased. It’s the Pittsburgh Steelers and I couldn’t be happier for Nick.”