1. New Deal Announcement
The Pittsburgh Steelers have successfully secured a long-term contract extension with tight end Pat Freiermuth, finalizing a four-year deal worth $48.4 million.
2. Contract Details
Freiermuth’s new agreement extends his time with the team through 2028 and includes $23.38 million in guaranteed money, ensuring his financial security.
3. Progress Toward Agreement
The announcement follows reports earlier in the day indicating that both parties were making significant progress in negotiations, making the deal anticipated.
4. Offensive Impact
Freiermuth has been a crucial part of the Steelers’ offense in his first two seasons, consistently recording 60 receptions each year and scoring nine touchdowns. However, his production dipped in 2023 due to injuries.
5. Market Positioning
At just 25 years old, Freiermuth has established himself as a central figure in the team’s offensive strategy. His average annual salary of $12.1 million ranks him ninth among tight ends, positioned between Cole Kmet and Dalton Schultz.
6. Comparisons to Top Earners
While Freiermuth’s contract doesn’t reach the heights of elite tight ends like Travis Kelce and George Kittle, he is set to become one of the top earners on the Steelers’ offense.
7. Team Composition
The Steelers currently have a cost-effective quarterback duo in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, along with rookie contracts for running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, which helps with cap management.
8. Receiving Corps Concerns
With Diontae Johnson’s departure, George Pickens is now the leading receiver, and questions remain about the team’s depth at wide receiver heading into the season.
9. Supporting Cast
Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin, Scotty Miller, and rookie Roman Wilson will be relied upon to support Pickens after the failed trade for Brandon Aiyuk, who instead signed an extension with the 49ers.
10. Future Cap Considerations
Freiermuth’s extension will likely not create an overwhelming cap charge, but it will require general manager Omar Khan to evaluate future resource allocation more carefully.
11. Expectations Moving Forward
With this new contract, Freiermuth is expected to rebound in performance during the 2024 season and contribute significantly to the Steelers’ offensive success.
12. Long-Term Strategy
The extension underscores the team’s commitment to Freiermuth as a foundational piece in their long-term offensive planning, highlighting his potential for future growth within the organization.