The Pittsburgh Steelers' tight end group has gained several new players in recent months, creating competition behind the top two on the depth chart. Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington remain secure in their positions. The additions include two rookies, a veteran, and two other players who joined since April.
Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington sit at the top of the Pittsburgh Steelers' tight end depth chart. The rest of the position is open for competition following recent roster moves. The contenders include rookies Riley Nowakowski and Lake McRee, veteran Robert Tonyan, and Jaheim Bell along with JJ Galbreath. Most of these players joined the team since April, with Galbreath having participated in last year's camp before signing a futures contract in January. Nowakowski, a fifth-round pick, has a chance to secure the No. 3 role while splitting time as a fullback under new coach Robert Kugler. Tonyan brings experience from 17 games with the Kansas City Chiefs last season, mostly on running plays. McRee, at 6 feet 4 inches and 250 pounds, showed receiving ability in college despite prior injuries. Bell and Galbreath add further options, though Galbreath needs to improve his blocking. The winner of the battle is expected to handle backup snaps and special teams work.