Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Has Definitive Answer Regarding His Future In Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of money invested when it comes to the defensive side of the ball. The offense gets overlooked in terms of financials because of this, but tight end Pat Freiermuth is heavily compensated to be one of the best at his position. Unfortunately, the team did not seem to utilize him properly throughout the duration of the 2025 campaign. It has made little sense regarding his lack of targets dating back to when he signed a significant contract extension. The future for the playmaker hangs in the balance, as it might make sense for the organization to trade him.

Following a devastating home loss to the Houston Texans on Monday evening, the Steelers will be evaluating everything. A decade-long postseason win drought has to have the attention of ownership, and there could be some drastic decisions made in the 2026 offseason. Freiermuth has a ton of talent, but with his lack of targets in 2025, some may believe that he could be interested in moving on.

Pittsburgh's roster reported to the team's facility on Tuesday to clean out lockers and put a bow on the campaign. Freiermuth spoke to the media and while some may believe that he wants to get a fresh start elsewhere, he made it very clear that he is interested in continuing to play in the Steel City. He does not want to go anywhere else as of now.

"I'm a Steeler. I wanna be here. I wanna see this thing through," Freiermuth told reporters.

While the words from Freiermuth may inspire confidence in the fan base, the season ending is a fresh reality to face. Players don't want to come out and create narratives right as the offseason gets underway. The tight end and his representation may feel as if he is better positioned to earn another lucrative contract in the future if he has the chance to prove himself somewhere else.

Pittsburgh has a very intriguing situation at the tight end position. Darnell Washington is in line to receive an extension, and Jonnu Smith is also under contract for 2026, but had an absolutely awful first year with the Steelers.

It is very unlikely that the Steelers will enter the 2026 season with all three of the tight ends on the roster. It's possible, but seems as if a change is needed in that department to make sure that the right players are being relied on. Smith is the easy answer, but Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith may have something to say about that, particularly because of his relationship with Jonnu Smith.

Freiermuth seems to be way too talented to not be heavily involved in the Steelers' offense. Time will tell what the organization decides to do, but it certainly feels as if the franchise is hitting a crossroads with its former second-round pick. Freiermuth should get more targets; however, the question remains if it will be in the Steel City or somewhere else.

Steelers Have A Lot Of Questions To Answer Yet Again

Pittsburgh's 2025 roster seemed to be one that could do some damage in the postseason. Unfortunately, that did not end up being the case. Freiermuth was barely utilized in the Wild Card loss, which only emphasizes the curiosities surrounding his future. Fans should not be surprised if he is wearing a different uniform come September; and performing at a high level.

Do you think that the Steelers have failed Freiermuth? Let us know in the comments below!

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