Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Gets Honest On New Role Under Mike McCarthy

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth hasn't had the easiest path through his first five NFL seasons. The Penn State product arrived in Pittsburgh expecting to be a focal point of the offense, and, during his rookie season alongside Ben Roethlisberger, many felt he was beginning to live up to his potential. Since then, however, the Steelers have gone through several changes at quarterback. While Freiermuth continued to be a productive player, his role never expanded the way many expected it would. Instead, his opportunities in the passing game have often fluctuated despite his steady performance.

Now, with a new offensive staff in place, many are curious about what the next chapter will look like for Freiermuth. Offensive Coordinator Brian Angelichio and Head Coach Mike McCarthy are hopeful they can fully unlock the talented tight end in their first season working with him. While it's still early and his role within the new system remains largely unknown, there's a growing belief that Freiermuth will be featured much more prominently.

Freiermuth is entering his sixth season in the Black and Gold, and the expectation remains that he can develop into one of the league's better pass-catching tight ends. Darnell Washington took significant strides during the 2025 season, and that growth should continue under the new coaching staff. 

Meanwhile, Freiermuth fits the mold of the traditional pass-catching tight end that McCarthy has often utilized throughout his career. His role is one of the most intriguing storylines to watch as the Steelers enter a new era offensively. Freiermuth recently spoke with Steelers insider Gerry Dulac about how he's feeling as he prepares for the 2026 season.

"I like my role in the offense," Freiermuth said while speaking about the McCarthy offensive scheme. "I see my role increasing for sure. But I have to show up every single day and earn what I want my role to be."

Freiermuth has always taken the high road during times when many felt he deserved more targets. He's consistently been described as the epitome of a team player, someone whose primary focus is helping the Steelers win games.

While that mindset is admirable, it doesn't change the fact that many throughout Steeler Nation believe Freiermuth can play a much larger role in helping the offense succeed. His talent as a pass-catcher has never been in question, and there has long been a belief that he could be one of the focal points of the passing attack if given the opportunity. 

"I feel the opportunity for that to be possible," Freiermuth said.

Now, it will be interesting to see just how much McCarthy values Freiermuth's skill set and whether the veteran tight end finally receives the expanded role that many have been calling for.

Steelers Should See A Much Different Pat Freiermuth In 2026

One area where McCarthy's offenses have consistently succeeded is creating opportunities in the middle of the field. His schemes have historically relied on tight ends to move the chains, exploit mismatches, and serve as reliable targets in critical situations.

That philosophy could benefit Freiermuth more than ever in his NFL career. With a coaching staff that values versatility and route-running from the position, Freiermuth may finally have the chance to become a true centerpiece of Pittsburgh's passing attack in 2026. 

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