Pat Freiermuth

Career StatsC-

Year	Team	GP	Rec	Yards	TD
Career		78	261	2,676	22
2025		17	41	486	4
2024		17	65	653	7
2023		12

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Steelers handed Pat Freiermuth a **C CVI**, reflecting a slight overpay for a serviceable starter at tight end. At $12.1M AAV, Pittsburgh is paying Freiermuth like a fringe top-10 tight end when his production sits more comfortably in the second tier of the position — he's a reliable target who won't hurt you, but lacks the explosive playmaking ability that typically justifies this salary range. The four-year structure does provide some upside if the 25-year-old takes a developmental leap, though tight ends historically peak earlier than other skill positions, making dramatic improvement less likely. With only $11.6M guaranteed out of the $48.4M total, the Steelers at least built in escape hatches if Freiermuth's production stagnates. This deal reflects Pittsburgh's tendency to retain homegrown talent, but they're essentially betting on potential rather than paying for proven elite production at a position where $12M annually should net you a more dynamic receiving threat.

Performance Analysis

Pat Freiermuth's C- grade positions him as a steady if unspectacular tight end in Pittsburgh's offense. Freiermuth has been a reliable receiving option for the Steelers, showing good hands and route-running ability from the tight end position. His production hasn't hit the elite level that some projected when he was drafted, but he's been a consistent contributor in the passing game. The C- reflects a player who does his job well without being a true game-changer — solid receiving numbers, adequate blocking, and dependable hands. Pittsburgh's offensive limitations have capped his upside, but Freiermuth has been one of the more trustworthy targets in the passing game. He's a comfortable starter who could thrive with better quarterback play.

Current Sentiment

Pat Freiermuth enters the 2026 season as Pittsburgh's unquestioned top tight end following the release of Jonnu Smith, a move that underscores the organization's long-term commitment to him as a foundational piece of the offense. However, his public admission of disappointment regarding his usage in the Steelers' scheme has generated notable media attention, casting a shadow over what should be a straightforward narrative of positional security. The fact that the head coach felt compelled to publicly address Freiermuth's role suggests internal tension that has spilled into the broader football conversation, a dynamic that tempers enthusiasm heading into the new season. On the positive side, Freiermuth's community engagement and charitable work have kept his personal brand in good standing, and his career production — over 2,600 receiving yards across five seasons — reflects a reliable, if not explosive, contributor at the position. The prevailing media perception is that of a capable starter at a crossroads, one whose value to the Steelers is clear but whose ceiling remains a point of genuine debate among analysts and fans alike.