Ranking every Steelers position by need in 2023 offseason

Dec 9, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin (center) talks with free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) and cornerback Arthur Maulet (35) and cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) and teammates during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

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Pat Freiermuth #88 of the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

Steelers position of need #11: TE

Need level: Luxury additions

I almost put a tight end as the least-needed spot (despite a lot of people clamoring for the team to invest in a tight end early in the draft). Pat Freiermuth is quickly becoming a top player at the position, Zach Gentry is a steady second option that can block, and Connor Heyward proved to be a versatile weapon for this offense.

The reason it ranks slightly higher than running back is twofold. For starters, Gentry is set to be a free agent this offseason. While bringing him back should be in the plans (if not, I will be far too sad to see him walk), he isn’t a lock to return. If he walks, the team will need a new backup option.

Secondly, I can see a world where the team is open to using Heyward as a combo tight end and fullback given his size. He shouldn’t only see snaps at fullback, but if the team wants to use him there, I would be fine with it. That would leave the door open for a fourth tight end to be on the roster to fill out the room. Still, this position is pretty set heading into 2023.

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