Steelers UDFA TE Has A True Edge To Make The 53-Man Roster

The Pittsburgh Steelers have just wrapped up the 2026 NFL Draft, where they decided to draft primarily offensive weapons. This is the franchise's first draft under Head Coach Mike McCarthy. The team has moved towards upgrading that side of the ball, while maintaining the elite nature of its defense. Along with the draft comes the usual undrafted free agents (UDFA). Pittsburgh has signed six players, and all of these players have a chance to compete for spots on the 53-man roster and the practice squad. 

Among the Steelers' UDFAs is a tight end out of the University of Southern California, Lake McRee. McRee was a four-year player with the Trojans. He is known for his ability to be an effective pass catcher. Pittsburgh's lack of depth at the backup tight end position could play an important part for McRee if he wants to make the team. In a recent episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo spoke on a scenario where McRee could make a huge jump from UDFA to a spot on the 53-man roster. 

"To me, a pass-catching tight end, you almost feel like they need like a backup pass-catching tight end in the event that Pat Freiermuth goes down with an injury. To me, that's the one thing they're kind of missing on this roster right now. They're just missing that route-running tight end who might be a little bit smaller, more receiver-like, but could also line up in line and be a tight end, too," Fittipaldo said. "I think one of those guys is going to have a good chance of making this team."

The Steelers signed multiple tight ends to UDFA deals, but McRee has a very established resume. His draft stock was heavily influenced by some knee injuries he sustained while in college. However, in 2025, he was named to the second team All-Big Ten and started 12 games. McRee racked up 30 receptions for 450 yards and four touchdowns. He's listed at 6'4" and 243 pounds, but is a known route-runner. He could be an archetype of the tight end the Steelers are looking for in a capable TE3. 

Obviously, as a UDFA, McRee is a very raw prospect. However, with a clear need for a backup option that can make plays if there is an injury, there is a real path to the roster for McRee. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein described McRee's abilities before the Draft, and they seem promising. 

"A combination tight end who makes up for his lack of ideal size with his ability to get open and make combat catches without flinching. McRee runs leveraged routes and finds a way to separate at break points. He’s instinctive in space and adds unexpected yardage with route adjustments," Zierlein wrote. 

McRee could be a similar mold to existing tight end Freiermuth, and would be a solid depth addition to the team. He'll have a chance to prove it in camp, especially with the rookie minicamp from May 9-11 for Pittsburgh. There, the UDFAs will have the chance to show what they can do, and McRee could make a splash. 

The Steelers Tight Ends Need To Be Utilized More In 2026

In the 2025 season, the Steelers' passing game was average at best. However, players like Freiermuth had one of the worst seasons of his career in 2025. Granted, a lot of this comes from poor scheming from the previous coaching regime. If the Black and Gold offense wants to fire on all cylinders, involving its tight ends would be very beneficial. 

The passing game will be a point of emphasis in the McCarthy offense, and this will give Freiermuth a better chance to turn things around. All roads lead to more usage for the Steelers' tight ends in the passing game in 2026.

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