5 biggest surprises of the Steelers during the 2021 season

Pat Freiermuth, Tight end

Pat Freiermuth was one of the standout performers of the 2021 draft class. Najee Harris and Dan Moore Jr. had huge impacts on this team but Freiermuth might have the best career out of the three. He is the deadliest target at his position since Heath Miller played for the Steelers.

He is a big target that has come along as a blocker, especially for the run. He has been able to show why the team picked him in the second round over addressing other needs. Perhaps that argument is still out there if that was the right choice but Freiermuth has been silencing the doubters consistently.

Many should have expected this player to do well in the NFL after looking at his dominant career at Penn State. He is a big body that could’ve been a first-round selection if he wasn’t hurt during his final college season. He has the talent and has shown it during his rookie year.

He should continue to get better as his NFL life continues further and his potential as a leader for the future of this club is there as well. He put up solid numbers during his rookie campaign that included seven touchdown receptions. His physical style and ability to bulldoze anyone will make him a fan favorite for years to come.

The Steelers had an up and down year but these players stood out in a positive light. Each one of them made good contributions to this team in 2021.