Steelers vs. Eagles: 4 players Pittsburgh fans must have their eye on

TE Pat Freiermuth

Here’s a player all Steelers fans are no doubt itching to see. Pat Freiermuth has raised eyebrows during training camp, as the rookie seems to come down with everything thrown at him and has done a terrific job selling his routes.

The Steelers second-round pick in 2021 was held out of the first exhibition matchup against the Cowboys, but after practicing this week, Freiermuth looks to gear up for this preseason battle against the Eagles.

Nobody’s doubting Freiermuth’s ability to give this team a boost in the passing game, but the coaching staff is really going to want to see how he performs as a blocker. During training camp practices, he’s been terrific at times in space – paving the way for the ball carrier to spring big runs. However, I’m interested to see how he does lined up at the ‘Y’ (or in-line next to the offensive tackle).

Freiermuth has the size to be a quality in-line tight end in the NFL, but it’s a matter of playing consistently with leverage. Keep an eye on him against the Philadelphia Eagles this week. The rookie could play a huge role for the Steelers in 2021.