The Steelers have a knack for drafting well and finding diamonds in the rough. It is also exciting when they get a good name like Pat Freiermuth.
The Steelers made an excellent pick in the second round at pick number 55 taking Pat Freiermuth from Penn State. He is an all-around tight end who can help you in the passing game and in the running game.
Antjuan Simmons from Michigan State (linebacker) said that he was probably the best tight end that he faced and that he was the best tight end in the draft. It is important to note that Kyle Pitts is considered a wide receiver in his mind and he said as much.
The Kind of Athlete Pat Freiermuth is
Pat Freiermuth didn’t do much at Penn State Pro Day and I am guessing it is because he is still nursing an injury. His height is well within range for tight ends at 6’5 and his weight is a stout 251 pounds for someone who moves well as a receiver and can stretch the field as a tight end.
Pat Freiermuth had a shoulder injury that required surgery and ended his season prematurely with the Nittany Lions. I think he could have had a more productive off-season and been a first-round pick without that injury.
Who was he at Penn State
Pat Freiermuth was a feared tight end in the Big 10. He was a very good pass catcher who could make catches over 20 yards regularly. He could also be quite successful as a blocker for the Nittany Lions. I like that he is an all-around tight end and it gives the defense something to think about.
His prospects for starting for the Steelers
The problem with Eric Ebron is that he is basically a receiver with a big target. He doesn’t add much in the blocking game; so, defenses know they are going to pass to him. My hope is as the season goes on that they use Ebron situationally when they need two big targets in a time like 3rd and 5 or in the red zone. I hope Pat Freiermuth develops into the starter.
The Steelers did well adding Pat Freiermuth in the passing game. He will be a big target for Ben Roethlisberger who is starting to age and he will help block for Najee Harris. The Steelers have the tools to have a good passing attack, it is just a question of if their offensive line can hold up. Only time will tell.