Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth could see more opportunities in the 2026 season under new offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy. Columnist Ray Fittipaldo highlighted plans to increase his involvement after limited snaps in recent years.
Fittipaldo noted that Freiermuth was previously viewed mainly as a zone breaker under Mike Tomlin. He said the new staff may see more potential in man coverage situations.
With Jonnu Smith no longer on the roster, Freiermuth faces less competition at the position alongside Darnell Washington. Last season Freiermuth recorded 41 receptions for 486 yards and four touchdowns despite playing more than 50 percent of offensive snaps in only five games.
Fittipaldo wrote that McCarthy’s system could lead to around 94 targets for the top tight end. General manager Omar Khan previously stated the team “paid Pat for a reason” after Freiermuth’s 2024 extension.
