Initial draft grades for every Steelers 2021 draft selection

Round 2: Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn St.

Grade: B+

On the flip side, the Steelers getting Pat Freiermuth here seems like better value for the team. I thought he was going to be an early second-round pick, but he fell to pick 55 and right into the team’s lap. They did not wait long to take him either, showing a clear love for the prospect. This was evident pre-draft as the team was all over Penn St. during their pro day.

As a player, Freiermuth is billed as a complete tight end as opposed to an Eric Ebron type of receiver. While his blocking needs some work, he has the build and will-to as a run blocker. He struggled to see the field last year during a shortened season and was also a victim of a mediocre Penn St. passing attack. He will need some time to develop as a pro, but he shouldn’t be anything more than a compliment to Ebron in year one.

The only thing keeping his grade down is that the team opted for a tight end before a top center despite that being their bigger need. While this may limit the instant improvement of the offensive line, Freiermuth can still aid in improving the run game. The Steelers didn’t have a great run-blocking tight end for the past few years. If Freiermuth can improve that aspect of his game, the team could see more success running the ball with him on the field.