Freiermuth May Thrive The Most Under Mike McCarthy's Offense

Last season under Arthur Smith's offense, tight end Pat Freiermuth had the second-lowest target total of his NFL career (54) while making the second-lowest number of starts in his career (8). Considering he was playing in an offensive scheme that prioritized tight end and running back usage, it was surprising how neglected he was under Smith’s system. Targets consistently flowed to receiver DK Metcalf and the running back duo of Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren; even tight end Darnell Washington was utilized more than Freiermuth at times.

With the Steelers now transitioning to a West Coast system, Freiermuth may have the most compatible skill set for new head coach Mike McCarthy. Not only does it accentuate his route‑running ability, it allows him to operate in the areas where he is most effective: the short game, the intermediate levels, and the middle of the field.

In many ways, Freiermuth’s down year was more a reflection of the system than the player. Smith’s offense leaned heavily on wide‑zone concepts, play‑action shots, and a run‑centric identity that funneled touches to backs and boundary receivers.

That approach often left the tight end as a secondary read rather than a featured option, which is why Freiermuth’s involvement felt inconsistent and situational. Even when he was on the field, the route concepts rarely put him in position to be a primary target, and the offense’s rhythm never truly aligned with his strengths as a timing‑based, middle‑field operator.

The shift to McCarthy’s structure gives him a far more defined role. The West Coast system thrives on precision, leverage, and creating easy throwing windows — all areas where Freiermuth has shown he can excel when given the opportunity. Instead of being an accessory to the scheme, he becomes a natural outlet within its core design, with built‑in concepts that highlight his ability to separate underneath and work through traffic. If the Steelers commit to that identity, Freiermuth stands to regain the consistency and impact that were missing last season, positioning him as a reliable chain‑mover and a steady presence in the passing game.

Despite having a down season by his standards, this new offense gives Freiermuth the chance to reestablish himself as a reliable and versatile weapon. The structure of McCarthy’s system plays directly into what he does best, allowing him to win with precision, toughness, and feel rather than sheer athleticism.

 If the Steelers lean into those strengths, Freiermuth is positioned not just to rebound, but to deliver the most complete and consistent production of his career — the kind that reminds everyone why he was once viewed as a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s passing game.