The long wait is finally over. Football is back, and for the Pittsburgh Steelers, all eyes are on Week 1 as they travel to face the New York Jets in a game that already feels bigger than just an opening act.
That is especially true for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who makes his Steelers debut after an offseason full of anticipation. Skipping preseason action, Rodgers made it clear he’s saving his energy for moments that truly matter. And there might not be a more meaningful start than going toe-to-toe with his former team, who moved on from him after just one season.
But for Pittsburgh to leave MetLife Stadium with a win, they’ll need more than just a steady performance from their quarterback — they’ll need playmakers to step up. That’s where tight end Pat Freiermuth comes in.
Now entering his fifth season, Freiermuth is no longer a hidden gem or a rising star — he’s a proven threat, and in 2025, he has a chance to become a centerpiece of the Steelers' offense. Coming off a strong 2024 campaign with 653 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, the 6-foot-5 target is one of the most reliable pass-catchers on the roster.
And in a matchup against a Jets defense that’s physical but vulnerable over the middle, Freiermuth’s role could be the difference between victory and disappointment.
The Pittsburgh Steelers need Pat Freiermuth to have a great performance in Week 1
The Jets' defense is built to pressure quarterbacks and lock down the perimeter — which means Rodgers may need to find his safety valve early and often. Without a clear WR2 on the roster, and with Calvin Austin III and rookie Roman Wilson still carving out their identities, Freiermuth becomes even more valuable as a steady and familiar target.
He's more than just a red zone option — he's a matchup nightmare when lined up against linebackers and slower safeties. In Arthur Smith’s new offensive system, which leans on creative formations and tight end usage, Freiermuth has the potential to shine in ways fans haven’t seen since his breakout year.
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The chemistry between Rodgers and his tight end may not be fully developed yet, but Rodgers has a history of leaning on reliable middle-field targets when the pressure is on — think Jermichael Finley or Robert Tonyan during his Green Bay days. Freiermuth fits that mold perfectly.
This isn’t just a game to test schemes and shake off rust — it’s a tone-setter. Pittsburgh needs to score, and they’ll need every weapon to contribute. But if there’s one name I’d put money on to have a major impact Sunday, it’s Pat Freiermuth.
Expect him to be targeted early. Expect him to be leaned on late. And don’t be surprised if he’s the one making the big play when Pittsburgh needs it most.
Week 1 is here, and Pat Freiermuth is ready to answer the call.