Predicting which Steelers 2021 rookies will have successful NFL careers

TE Pat Freiermuth

The Steelers have had some great tight ends over the years. Heath Miller, Mark Bruener, Randy Grossman, and Bennie Cunningham, to name a few. Plus, the track records for tight ends have been fairly good in Pittsburgh. Considering tight ends, they play a dual role. As a blocker, there is a good chance of injury. As a receiver, the average life span 2.81 years. So as tight end, he should at least make it through the NFL player average for all positions at 3.3 years.

Pat Friermuth brings a lot to the Steelers. He was the 2nd highest-rated tight end in the draft when the Steelers surprisingly selected him. He has the ability to block, and the Steelers expect him to be a solid receiver when needed as well. He has the talent to be a capable tight end like Heath Miller. If he has a lot of success early on it’s not beyond the pale to assume the Steelers keep him around after his rookie contract.

Whether he makes the Hall of Fame is another issue. Still, considering the Steelers also have Eric Ebron, a seven-year veteran as it is. Adding Freiermuth to the mix could result in some big plays in 2021. It is not hard to envision Freiermuth having a long career with the Steelers. It would be a safe bet that Freiermuth will be a Steeler well beyond the 2025 season.