The Pittsburgh Steelers have successfully secured a long-term extension for tight end Pat Freiermuth, just ahead of the new season. The deal, confirmed by his agency and reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, is a four-year agreement worth $48.4 million.
With this extension, Freiermuth is now committed to the team through the 2028 season, having previously been in the last year of his rookie contract. Notably, the agreement includes $23.38 million guaranteed, adding financial security for the young player.
Earlier reports indicated that negotiations were progressing, making this announcement less surprising. Freiermuth has played a crucial role in the Steelers’ offense over his first two seasons, consistently posting 60 receptions each year and scoring a total of nine touchdowns.
However, his production dipped in 2023 due to injuries. At just 25 years old, he has nonetheless positioned himself as a key component of Pittsburgh’s long-term offensive strategy.
His average annual value of $12.1 million ranks him ninth among tight ends, placing him between Cole Kmet and Dalton Schultz. While he may not reach the upper echelon of tight end contracts like Travis Kelce, T.J. Hockenson, or George Kittle, Freiermuth will become one of the team’s highest-paid offensive players.
The Steelers currently have an economical quarterback tandem in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, along with running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, both still on rookie deals. With Diontae Johnson no longer on the roster, George Pickens has stepped up as the top receiver.
Freiermuth’s new contract is expected to impact the team’s salary cap but is not projected to create significant financial strain. General manager Omar Khan will need to consider Freiermuth’s value as he evaluates the offensive roster in the future.
As the season approaches, there are concerns about the depth of Pittsburgh’s receiving corps. Players like Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin, Scotty Miller, and rookie Roman Wilson will need to support Pickens after the failed trade for Brandon Aiyuk, who signed an extension with the 49ers.
Freiermuth is expected to bounce back in the 2024 season and beyond, delivering strong performances under his new lucrative contract. The Steelers are banking on his growth and continued contributions to their offensive success.