Let’s be honest—the Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t exactly lighting up scoreboards these days. They’re not built like an offensive juggernaut, and that reality often leaves their top talent buried beneath the national radar.
So when Pro Football Focus analyst John Kosko released his pre-season tight end rankings, it wasn’t shocking to see names like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews high on the list. Those guys deserve it. But what did come as a surprise—and a snub—was the omission of Pat Freiermuth from the top tier. PFF ranked the Penn State product as just the 22nd-best tight end entering the 2025 season.
Freiermuth, entering his fifth season, has quietly been one of the most dependable tight ends in the league. Yet Kosko placed Isaiah Likely, Dallas Goedert, and T.J. Hockenson above him in the rankings. Good players, yes.
But more productive than Freiermuth? I’m not so sure.
In 2024, Freiermuth finished first on the team in receptions (65) and second in receiving yards (653) despite playing in an offense that ranked near the bottom of the league in nearly every statistical category.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will ensure Pat Freiermuth receives respect in 2025
Pat Freiermuth was the lone bright spot and arguably the most consistent option in crunch time. His chemistry with the quarterbacks and ability to find soft spots in the zone made him the go-to safety blanket when things broke down, which happened often.
Now, with George Pickens traded to Dallas and no true WR2 on the roster, Freiermuth is poised to become even more important. Arthur Smith’s system leans heavily on tight ends, and Freiermuth’s reliability and red zone presence should thrive in that role.
Don’t be surprised if he surpasses his career-high of seven touchdowns this year simply because the Steelers will have no other choice but to feed him the ball.
Being left off Kosko’s list might sting, but I see it as fuel for Freiermuth. He’s not flashy, and maybe that’s why he’s overlooked. But he’s tough, smart, and consistently shows up when his team needs him most. That deserves more recognition.
Freiermuth isn’t just “solid.” He’s essential. And if this Steelers offense is going to find its footing in 2025, it’ll be No. 88 leading the way—whether the league notices or not.