Steelers Have a Position That's Generating Surprising Buzz in Offseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers offense has made headlines at pretty much every other position except for tight end, but that could be the unit that's central to the success of the unit this fall.

Aaron Rodgers' return at quarterback was the most important part of the offseason for the Steelers. The additions of wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard should help Rodgers be more efficient than last season.

The Steelers are making noticeable changes to the offensive line in the wake of Broderick Jones' neck injury. Dylan Cook is at right tackle, Troy Fautanu flipped to left tackle. Offensive guard Mason McCormick is now on the left side. It's only a matter of time before first-round tackle Max Iheanacho gets an opportunity.

Bucky Brooks of NFL Media ranked the top 5 tight end units in the league with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. He noted that the Steelers being on the list might surprise some fans, but they're "gritty" players who do more than catch passes. They can make a difference in the running game and block defensive ends during a pass rush.

"OK, so the duo lacks pizzazz when it comes to putting up receiving numbers; Freiermuth and Washington combined for 41 catches, 486 yards and four TDs last season, with a good chunk of targets going to Jonnu Smith, who was released in March," Brooks wrote. 'But they are adept chain-movers (with a combined catch rate of 74.2% and 37 receiving first downs in 2025) who can expand the strike zone for Aaron Rodgers while perfectly complementing DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman on the perimeter. 

"Collectively, Freiermuth and Washington have the potential to help Mike McCarthy build out a ball-control offense that accentuates his veteran quarterback's strengths as a quick-rhythm passer, while also setting the table for a punishing running game. And that merits a spot on this list for the Steelers' tight end group. "

Like good offensive linemen, Freiermuth and Washington don't make headlines, but they help the Steelers win games. With the additions of Pittman and Bernard, they may see fewer targets, but could be used more efficiently in the passing game when defenses are focusing on defending them. 

Pittsburgh will need a robust running attack, and its tight ends will be key to making big gains happen.