PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have secured their offensive centerpiece, signing tight end Pat Freiermuth to a blockbuster extension, sources told ESPN on May 4, 2025. The move locks in a key playmaker as the team eyes a deep playoff run.
Freiermuth, a 2021 second-round pick, was set to hit free agency after 2025. His 2024 season—66 catches, 674 yards, and 7 touchdowns—established him as Pittsburgh’s premier red-zone threat, prompting the Steelers to act swiftly.
The five-year, $80 million deal, with $52 million guaranteed, makes Freiermuth the NFL’s second-highest-paid tight end. His $16 million annual average value trails only George Kittle ($19.1 million) but tops Trey McBride ($15 million) and Travis Kelce ($14.3 million), per Spotrac.
“Pat’s a cornerstone,” GM Omar Khan said. “He’s earned every penny with his production and leadership.” The contract, structured with backloaded bonuses, fits Pittsburgh’s $32 million cap space, preserving room for future moves.
Freiermuth’s reliability—only 2 drops in 2024—and 72.8 PFF grade are vital for a passing attack ranked 24th (186.1 yards per game) last season. His chemistry with Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard anchors an offense in transition.
The Steelers’ offseason, headlined by Za’Darius Smith, Stephon Gilmore, and Mike Hilton, reflects a win-now mentality. Freiermuth, thriving in Arthur Smith’s 12-personnel sets with Darnell Washington, bolsters rookie RB Kaleb Johnson’s ground game.
Fans on X erupted, with posts like “Pat’s deal is HUGE! Worth it!” and “Second-richest TE? Steelers are cooking!” ESPN’s Adam Schefter praised the move, citing Freiermuth’s 15 red-zone catches since 2023, second only to Kelce among TEs.
As OTAs approach, Freiermuth’s extension galvanizes Pittsburgh’s young core. With George Pickens and DK Metcalf stretching defenses, his presence over the middle could spark an offensive surge against AFC North rivals in 2025.
