Steelers Suddenly Face Massive Problem Involving Pat Freiermuth As Trade Talk Looms

The Pittsburgh Steelers made the decision to draft tight end Pat Freiermuth in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft with the expectation that he would become a long-term pillar of the offense. In his rookie season, Freiermuth had the luxury of catching passes from Ben Roethlisberger and quickly justified the pick with a productive and reliable first year. He flashed strong hands, red zone presence, and a clear chemistry with a veteran quarterback who trusted him in very big moments.

The talent has never been in question for Freiermuth, but the opportunity has been far less consistent. Ongoing quarterback uncertainty in Pittsburgh has stalled his growth and limited his overall impact, even as his role has remained important within the offense. Many believed that would finally change heading into the 2025 season with Aaron Rodgers expected to stabilize the position. 

Instead, the offense never took the leap some anticipated, and Freiermuth’s usage and production failed to meaningfully improve. Now, Freiermuth’s name is popping up more frequently in trade conversations around the league. 

NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal recently discussed the situation on his podcast, outlining why he believes the Steelers could seriously consider moving Freiermuth before the 2026 season begins. With roster construction, offensive direction, and long-term planning all in play under the new regime with Mike McCarthy at the helm, Pittsburgh may be approaching a pivotal decision that few fans expected to be on the table.

"Pat Freiermuth, they barely played him last year," Rosenthal said while speaking on his NFL Daily podcast. "He’s due $9.1 million in total compensation this season. He has an extremely tradeable contract. Maybe Mike McCarthy has a different vision for him. That could absolutely happen."

Things in the Steel City are already much different now that Mike Tomlin is no longer in town. The Steelers are expected to move on from tight end Jonnu Smith, while Darnell Washington is recovering from a season-ending injury. 

The idea of trading Freiermuth now is an interesting one, and Rosenthal believes there is a market for him as well.

"He didn’t seem to fit with Rodgers for whatever reason, and I actually think he would have a market," Rosenthal said. "He seems like one that stands out to me because he’s in the middle of his prime. He’s a solid player, but maybe he’s not a fit there anymore."

The expectations for Freiermuth in the 2025 season were extremely high with Rodgers in town. The Steelers had three tight ends, all splitting the target share, but many could not understand why Freiermuth was not getting more looks, especially because in critical moments during big games, he was targeted and often came through with clutch plays.

Steelers' McCarthy Should Be Able To Unlock Freiermuth Nicely

Now it will be interesting to see how McCarthy plans to utilize Freiermuth as well as the other players on the roster. If he does not view Freiermuth as part of the long-term plans for the offense, that could open the door for a possible trade. However, McCarthy has historically favored using three starting wide receivers and one tight end. Freiermuth would be a perfect fit in his typical offensive schemes based on his prior philosophies.

Steeler Nation would love to see Freiermuth fulfill his potential in the Steel City, but trade talks are heating up once again around the talented 27-year-old tight end, who has scored 22 touchdowns and caught 261 passes for 2,676 receiving yards in 78 games in his NFL career.

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