Pat Freiermuth

After averaging 9.5 and 9.9 PPF fantasy points per game in his first two seasons in the league, Pat Freiermuth averaged only 6.4 PPR points per game in 2023, as he was thwarted by uneven QB play and a hamstring injury that cost him five games. Freiermuth had seven TD catches as a rookie in 2021. He only scored two touchdowns in 2022 but ramped up his yardage, finishing with 63 receptions for 732 yards. Freiermuth is adept at working the middle of the field, has dependable hands and is tough to bring down after the catch. A nine-catch, 120-yard performance vs. the Bengals in late November showed what Freiermuth is capable of. The Steelers aren't exactly loaded at the WR position, so Freiermuth should see enough targets in 2024 to give him a chance at low-end TE1 fantasy value.

Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth called Arthur Smith's offense "very exciting" for tight ends.

Fantasy Impact

While Smith called the plays for the Falcons, more than a third of their passes went to tight ends. However, fantasy managers who rostered Kyle Pitts are likely aware of the usage Jonnu Smith also saw. “With Arthur here, there’s a lot of stuff for the tight ends, situations where you want to make those plays," Freiermuth said. "I’m excited for that. I’m ready to roll.” It may be tough for some to trust this situation after what happened in Atlanta with Smith, but Freiermuth should remain the lead tight end for the Steelers.