Should I Start Pat Freiermuth?

Monday, August 24, 7:32 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth is earning his starting spot on the depth chart with a heavy practice load to round out the preseason. According to Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot, Freiermuth ranked third on the team in targets (13) and tied for second-most receptions (11) through seven preseason practices. The sixth-year veteran is coming off a disappointing 2025 season when his pass-catching abilities were tempered by former offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and he logged just 41 receptions for 486 yards and four touchdowns. Fellow tight end Darnell Washington has caught more targets during preseason play, but the heavy practice load suggests Freiermuth will be Aaron Rodgers' preferred third-down target. Freiermuth should be viewed as a late-round or streaming TE with upside.