The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t typically a team that looks to make major moves, but as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, there are going to be some very tough conversations that have to be had. If the Steelers want to be the team they're looking to be, it could require moving on from certain guys to get better elsewhere.
Pro Football Focus' John Kosko believes Pat Freiermuth is the Steelers’ most valuable potential trade asset heading into the draft. While Freiermuth has been a very nice player for the Steelers over the past few years, coming out of Penn State, it might not be a bad idea to move on from him if Pittsburgh believes it can replicate his production elsewhere.
“The Steelers have a reliable, every-down tight end in Pat Freiermuth, but more pressing needs along the offensive line as they try to remain competitive,” Kosko wrote. “Freiermuth earned a 67.4 PFF overall grade and a 68.5 PFF receiving grade in 2025, providing steady production as both a blocker and pass catcher on a team-friendly contract. His well-rounded skill set makes him an appealing option for teams in need of a tight end.”
Freiermuth has quietly been a very good player in the Steelers' offense over the past few seasons, but as Kosko touched on, it's never a bad idea for a team that likely won't win a Super Bowl to move on from players who have a ton of value around the league.
“Trading Freiermuth could allow Pittsburgh to recoup draft capital to address the left side of the offensive line or add help at linebacker.”
Having draft capital is very important in the NFL, and something the Steelers have to improve on. The Steelers have built a very good roster over the past few decades due to drafting well, and will need to continue to take that approach, even if things have to look a bit different in the short term.
I like Freiermuth as a player and would hate to see him go, but I understand the idea. The Steelers, especially if they don’t have a quarterback, could move him.