There are myriad reasons the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense has the chance to look significantly different in 2024 than it has in recent years.
Whether it is Russell Wilson or Justin Fields who emerge from this summer’s position battle for the starting quarterback job, the Steelers’ system could offer little resemblance to Matt Canada’s scheme thanks to the arrival of Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator.
While much of the optimism surrounding a potential Steelers offensive renaissance stems from Fields or Wilson offering dramatically improved quarterback play from what the franchise has experienced since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, other weapons could emerge as difference-makers this season.
Pat Freiermuth a Potential Breakout Star for Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth is entering his fourth NFL season since being chosen in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Penn State.
Despite playing through nagging injuries, and only appearing in 12 games last season, Freiermuth still caught 32 of his 47 targets for 308 yards and pair of touchdowns last season.
In 44 NFL games, Freiermuth has pulled down 155 receptions for 1,537 yards and 11 touchdowns.
With the 2024 NFL season looming, CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin lists Freiermuth as one of the top breakout stars to watch across the league.
“Injuries were a nagging issue in 2023,” Benjamin points out for CBS. “But, Freiermuth had 60 catches in each of his first two NFL seasons, growing quickly as a tough-yardage safety valve for multiple quarterbacks. As long as he stays upright, he has the build and the pass-catching acumen to be a breakout target for their new signal-caller room.”
One of the more underrated players at the position across the NFL, and entering the final year of his rookie contract, Freiermuth has plenty to play for and plenty to prove in 2024.
If Wilson or Fields exceed the expectations placed on the Steelers’ quarterbacks, Freiermuth may stand to be among the players who benefit the most.
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