Understanding Pat Freiermuth's Diminishing Role In The Steelers Offense

Photo Credit: Karl Roser/ Pittsburgh Steelers

Reliability is one of the most valued attributes NFL teams seek when drafting players. While it may seem like a simple concept, its significance runs deeper than many realize.

Over the past five seasons, few players on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster have embodied reliability—both on and off the field—more than tight end Pat Freiermuth. Since being selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Penn State, Freiermuth has appeared in 65 career games, amassing 2,225 receiving yards and 18 total touchdowns. Despite dealing with concussion issues early in his career, he has remained relatively healthy and consistently available.

On and off the field, Freiermuth has long been one of the Steelers’ most dependable options in short-yardage and red-zone situations. For his size, he’s a surprisingly crafty route runner, capable of creating separation and making plays downfield when given the opportunity. Physically, he still possesses the tools to thrive in an offensive system that emphasizes tight ends and running backs. Yet, this season, both his production and snap count have dropped significantly.

In the Steelers’ Week 4 win in Dublin, Ireland, against the Minnesota Vikings, Freiermuth logged just 15 total snaps—one fewer than Conner Heyward. Even more striking was the fact that he didn’t receive a single target, marking the first time in his NFL career that he was completely shut out of the passing game.

It’s easy to point to the addition of Jonnu Smith and the increased usage of Darnell Washington as reasons for Freiermuth’s reduced role. But the question remains: what’s truly driving this shift?

One glaring factor is his blocking ability—or lack thereof. Against the Vikings, the Steelers leaned heavily on personnel packages featuring Spencer Anderson and Darnell Washington, which proved highly effective. The team rushed for 131 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 4.5 yards per carry—their best output of the season. Given Freiermuth’s known struggles as a blocker, it’s reasonable to expect this trend to continue after the bye week.

Another key element is quarterback chemistry, particularly with Aaron Rodgers. During the offseason, Rodgers developed strong rapport with receivers D.K. Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, and to a lesser extent, Washington. That connection hasn’t materialized with Freiermuth. Last season, under former Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, Freiermuth was a primary target and appeared to be in sync. This year, however, miscommunications between Rodgers and Freiermuth have been frequent, limiting his involvement in the passing game.

Perhaps the most overlooked reason is the neglect of the middle of the field—an area where Freiermuth excels, especially on seam routes. Ironically, Rodgers’ 80-yard touchdown pass to Metcalf came on a crossing route through the middle. In Week 3 against the Patriots, he also connected with Jonnu Smith for a 21-yard gain in that same area. Whatever offensive schemes are being deployed, they seem to bypass Freiermuth’s strengths, resulting in fewer opportunities.

Considering the long-term commitment the organization made to Freiermuth last summer, it’s unlikely they envisioned such a diminished role. His reduced usage isn’t solely about Jonnu Smith—it reflects broader changes in offensive philosophy, quarterback dynamics, and situational strategy. Unless the Steelers recommit to utilizing the middle of the field or seek a spark in the passing game, Freiermuth may continue to be relegated to a secondary role.