Steelers caught the NFL napping when they selected Freiermuth

Why Freiermuth?

Several fans were left shaking their heads, no doubt, trying to make sense of why the Steelers would take a tight end with the pressing need of a tackle or center. Ok, yes, perhaps a bit odd initially; however, the selection was pure genius. In selecting a tight end, they solved two problems with one pick. It gives the Steelers an extra blocker specifically for the running game, or even in the passing game if they happen to run a double tight end set. Yes, the Steelers needed more blockers; in Freiermuth, they got that, plus they gave Ben Roethlisberger an additional weapon.

The Steelers vastly upgraded their rushing game with Najee Harris. The Steelers resigned JuJu Smith-Schuster, and still have Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, who has superb blocking abilities, and  James Washington. The last thing rest of the NFL wanted to do is give the Steelers, who won their first 11 games, an additional weapon he can use in the passing game, or if need be, one to can help open running lanes for Najee Harris.

If opposing teams try to go man to man or double cover the wide receivers, Freiermuth will fill the role once held by another tight. Who was that? Oh yes, Heath Miller.  Ok, here come the groans. Miller is a potential future Hall of Famer and was at one point the best tight end in the game. No one is saying Freiermuth is another potential  Hall of Famer. However, he could be very productive.

Plus, there is a second reason Freiermuth’s selection was genius. When most teams run a double tight end set, they only have to worry about one tight end. Now anyone on the Steelers’ schedule has to worry about two tight ends.