6 young Steelers you have to keep an eye on in training camp

Steelers Pat Freiermuth

While eyes will be all over the Steelers rookie class during training camp, Pat Freiermuth has already made some noise early. Some big catches have yielded a bit of talk for the team’s second-round pick. Now, he isn’t ready to jump Eric Ebron on the depth chart quite yet, but a solid training camp could allow him to get on the field quicker than many expect in 2021.

Tight ends have a tough transition to the league and usually require a year or two to develop into a quality starter. While expectations shouldn’t be huge for Freiermuth in year one, perhaps he could be on the field as a capable number two tight end sooner than later. That extra playing time will only quicken his development and put him in a better position to become the go-to option in 2022.

While recording some nice catches early is positive, he needs to continue that trend once the pads come one. As well, catching ability is great, but part of the reason the Steelers drafted him in the second is his blocking ability. Showcasing a strong blocking base will be critical in getting on the field for him this season. His camp has started off strong. Now he needs to keep it up and keep his name as one being mentioned fondly by the team.