Steelers best and worst-case scenarios for Pat Freiermuth’s rookie season

Worst-case scenario

Freiermuth enters camp with fans already chanting his name (as is tradition with tight ends). He has a quiet camp and preseason, but with little competition, he easily claims the second tight end role. The team looks to get him involved early, as he plays in 60 percent of the week one snaps. Unfortunately, a whiffed block leads to a Benny Snell fumble at the goal line and a late-game fourth-down drop ends the Steelers’ hope of a comeback.

The season doesn’t get much better from there, as Freiermuth continues to struggle in the receiving department. His lack of athleticism is worse than expected, as a seam pass is easily picked off by Patrick Queen as he just couldn’t keep up with the linebacker when the team plays the Ravens. Resolved that he isn’t the go-to receiver yet, the Steelers still try to play him in run-heavy sets. Unfortunately, he hasn’t found the strength or the technique yet to be effective there.

His best game comes midway in the season, as he registers three receptions for 23 yards and a touchdown (his only one of the season). The issue is, he is still missing blocks and negatively affecting the run game. Since he isn’t the receiving threat that Ebron is, the team can’t justify getting him onto the field regularly. Kevin Radar begins getting more burn as he is the better blocker, and Freiermuth fades from the offensive game plan.

The season ends with a very last year Vance McDonald stat line: 14 receptions for 85 yards and the lone touchdown. With his blocking being just as big of a question as to his receiving, the Steelers go into the offseason unsure what to do at tight end. Freiermuth doesn’t solidify himself as a starter, and the team prepares to add competition.