The Pittsburgh Steelers significantly upgraded the quarterback room this offseason by signing Russell Wilson and trading for Justin Field, and the franchise could be on the cusp of signing one of the veteran quarterbacks’ top playmakers in the passing game to a long-term extension.
Given that the Steelers lack a proven No. 2 wide receiver behind George Pickens, and that Pittsburgh missed out on the chance to add either Tyler Boyd or Brandon Aiyuk this offseason to upgrade the passing game, tight end Pat Freiermuth could be on the cusp of an expanded role in 2024.
According to one NFL insider, Freiermuth might also be in line for a massive payday in the near future.
NFL Analyst Suggests Pat Freirmuth Could Sign New Deal with Pittsburgh Steelers
ESPN NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler put together a short list of players who could get new deals done before Week 1 kicks off, including a new long-term pact between Freiermuth and the Steelers.
A few standout players I'm watching for potential buzzer-beating extensions as Week 1 approaches. #Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth#Bills OL Spencer Brown#Chiefs OG Trey Smith#Vikings S Cam Bynumhttps://t.co/PKCDxratBI
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 5, 2024
Through three seasons, since being chosen in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Penn State, Freiermuth has caught 155 passes for 1,537 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Freiermuth, 25, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and set to collect $1.98 million this season.
However, given the relative dearth of weapons in the passing game, and the fact that the Steelers have historically built around their homegrown players who develop into consistent competitors, it would make sense for Pittsburgh to try to get a deal done with Freiermuth to prevent him from reaching free agency next spring.
