Heading into the 2024 NFL season, there is a ton of talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers. Not only are they revamping the team’s quarterback room, but the longest-tenured pass catcher on the team is in a contract year. Now, one of the most talented weapons on the Steelers’ offense is looking for some long-term security.
Steelers’ Pat Freiermuth wants to stay with the team for the rest of his career
Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth is entering the fourth and final year of his rookie contract. The team selected him with the 55th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. During a recent appearance on the Around the 412 Podcast, Pittsburgh’s star TE said he wants to earn a second contract with the Steelers so he can stay in Pittsburgh, where he hopes to finish out his NFL career.
“I want to be in Pittsburgh for the rest of my career. Hopefully it shakes out that way,” Freiermuth said. “Next year, this year, whatever happens I want to continue to play for Pittsburgh because Pittsburgh reminds me of where I’m from and how I was raised. So, I feel very at peace and very comfortable in Pittsburgh so hopefully it shakes out the way that I want it to in the next coming year or whenever that may be.”
Freiermuth became a fan favorite as a rookie. He scored seven touchdowns in his first season. However, he missed five games last season due to injury. That combined with poor QB play resulted in his worst statistical season. Freiermuth could become the team’s second option behind WR George Pickens in 2024 after the Steelers hired Arthur Smith to be the new offensive coordinator and traded WR Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers.
New-look Steelers offense could help Freiermuth earn a new contract
The Steelers are entering a new era with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as potential starting QBs. Wilson is reportedly being tagged as the starter. Freiermuth says he and some other Steelers receivers recently traveled to California to work out with Wilson. Freiermuth says it’s been part of a good start to the bonding process with the team’s potential new starting quarterback.
“I was just down there in San Diego with him working out and throwing routes,” Freiermuth said. “He’s been great at talking to guys and starting to build that connection. He’s a great guy. You can tell the drive and determination that he has to win and come to Pittsburgh and win some playoff games for us.”
The Steelers may still decide to extend the 25-year-old Freiermuth prior to the season. However, it is unclear if those conversations have begun yet.
Also Read: Former Steelers WR Chase Claypool Signs With New Team – Total Apex Sports
New on NFL: Carolina Panthers Sign Star Defensive Player To Massive Extension
For More Great Content