The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2024 season with several uncertainties, but the future of tight end Pat Freiermuth is not one of them.
The team secured Freiermuth with a five-year contract on Friday, extending his tenure with the Steelers through the 2028 season. This deal solidifies a position that had seen significant changes before Freiermuth’s arrival three years ago.
Freiermuth, who has totaled 155 receptions for 1,537 yards and 11 touchdowns in 44 games, celebrated his new contract with teammates during a meeting on Friday afternoon ahead of the season opener in Atlanta.
The 25-year-old was set to enter the final year of his rookie deal, signed after being drafted in the second round in 2021.
“He’s worked so hard, is passionate about football, and is a great teammate, leader, and friend,” said Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson. “We had dinner with the offensive line on Thursday night, and we kind of knew something was going to happen. Seeing him smile as he walked off the field on Friday was special.”
Freiermuth could thrive under first-year offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, known for utilizing tight ends prominently in his coaching roles.
“He’s a unique player,” Smith said. “He’s found early success in the league and at Penn State. He has an excellent sense of space and knows how to find windows in zone coverage and set up defenders in man coverage. He’s got a great feel for the game.”
This signing marks the Steelers’ second major deal this week, following their three-year contract with veteran defensive end Cam Heyward on Tuesday.
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