1 hr. ago
Pittsburgh Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth caught two of three targets for 11 yards in a Week 6 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Bucs.
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: This was Freiermuth's fewest targets all season, as fellow TE Darnell Washington had six targets, four receptions and a score. One has to wonder if his late addition to the injury report with a calf issue had something to do with his meager production. That said, Freiermuth has four touchdowns this year and is still a TE2 option, especially with the receiving corps as beat up as it is. ****** uming he is injury-free next week, Freiermuth warrants low-end TE1 consideration against the Saints.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Slow day at the office for Pat Freiermuth in Week 6 vs. Tampa Bay
#freiermuth
SOURCE: USA TODAY
Why It Matters: This was Freiermuth's fewest targets all season, as fellow TE Darnell Washington had six targets, four receptions and a score. One has to wonder if his late addition to the injury report with a calf issue had something to do with his meager production. That said, Freiermuth has four touchdowns this year and is still a TE2 option, especially with the receiving corps as beat up as it is. ****** uming he is injury-free next week, Freiermuth warrants low-end TE1 consideration against the Saints.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Slow day at the office for Pat Freiermuth in Week 6 vs. Tampa Bay
#freiermuth
1 month ago
Week 1 was a great reminder of why we all love fantasy football.
At quarterback, Bryce Young scored more points than Drake Maye, Baker Mayfield, Matthew Stafford, Kyler Murray and Sam Darnold combined. At running back, two Bears finished inside the top-10 while Christian McCaffrey was out-carried by a rookie. The current WR1, Jalen ****** er, had more fantasy points than Puka Nacua, DeVonta Smith, Drake London, George Pickens and Ja'Marr Chase combined. Finally, the currently list of TE1s includes Mike Gesicki, Pat Freiermuth, T.J. Hockenson, Noah Fant, Cole Kmet and Kenyon Sadiq. Fun.
Thankfully, we can already start looking ahead to Week 2.
Here's an early look at Week 2 fantasy football rankings. Toggle between standard, half PPR (point per reception) and full PPR to see where players rank in your league's format. Scroll to the bottom to view the complete rankings.
Our team at USA TODAY Sports has you covered with plenty of content to help with your Week 2 waiver wire and roster decisions. Looking for up-to-date player news? We've got it. Wondering who the best waiver-wire claims are? We have that covered, so you can make your pickups. Need to know what players you can drop? We have that as well. We also have a list of the eight best buy low/sell high candidates and our biggest winners and losers from Week 1.
#drake #looking #Football #list
At quarterback, Bryce Young scored more points than Drake Maye, Baker Mayfield, Matthew Stafford, Kyler Murray and Sam Darnold combined. At running back, two Bears finished inside the top-10 while Christian McCaffrey was out-carried by a rookie. The current WR1, Jalen ****** er, had more fantasy points than Puka Nacua, DeVonta Smith, Drake London, George Pickens and Ja'Marr Chase combined. Finally, the currently list of TE1s includes Mike Gesicki, Pat Freiermuth, T.J. Hockenson, Noah Fant, Cole Kmet and Kenyon Sadiq. Fun.
Thankfully, we can already start looking ahead to Week 2.
Here's an early look at Week 2 fantasy football rankings. Toggle between standard, half PPR (point per reception) and full PPR to see where players rank in your league's format. Scroll to the bottom to view the complete rankings.
Our team at USA TODAY Sports has you covered with plenty of content to help with your Week 2 waiver wire and roster decisions. Looking for up-to-date player news? We've got it. Wondering who the best waiver-wire claims are? We have that covered, so you can make your pickups. Need to know what players you can drop? We have that as well. We also have a list of the eight best buy low/sell high candidates and our biggest winners and losers from Week 1.
#drake #looking #Football #list
2 months ago
By Sunday evening, the Pittsburgh Steelers will trim their 90-man training camp roster down to just 53 players. We decided to ask AI to make a roster prediction to see if it can get it right and where the algorithm stands on the idea of the Steelers keeping four quarterbacks on the roster. In this simulation, the AI
Offense (25)Quarterbacks (3): Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Drew AllarRunning Backs (3): Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Travis HomerWide Receivers (6): DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Roman Wilson, Germie Bernard, Ben Skowronek, Kaden WetjenTight Ends / Fullback (4): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Robert Tonyan, Riley Nowakowski (FB)Offensive Line (9): Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Spencer Anderson, Dylan Cook, Brock Hoffman, Gennings Dunker, Max IheanachorDefense (25)Defensive Line (6): Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Gabriel RubioOutside Linebackers (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack SawyerInside Linebackers (5): Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Elandon Roberts, Cole Holcomb, Carson BruenerCornerbacks (6): Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr., Brandin Echols, Daylen EveretteSafeties (4): DeShon Elliott, Jaquan Brisker, Rayshawn Jenkins, Robert Spears-JenningsSpecial Teams (3)Kicker (1): Chris BoswellPunter (1): Cameron JohnstonLong Snapper (1): Christian Kuntz
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Asking AI to predict the Steelers 53-man roster
#steelers #line #sunday
Offense (25)Quarterbacks (3): Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Drew AllarRunning Backs (3): Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Travis HomerWide Receivers (6): DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Roman Wilson, Germie Bernard, Ben Skowronek, Kaden WetjenTight Ends / Fullback (4): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Robert Tonyan, Riley Nowakowski (FB)Offensive Line (9): Troy Fautanu, Broderick Jones, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Spencer Anderson, Dylan Cook, Brock Hoffman, Gennings Dunker, Max IheanachorDefense (25)Defensive Line (6): Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Gabriel RubioOutside Linebackers (4): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack SawyerInside Linebackers (5): Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Elandon Roberts, Cole Holcomb, Carson BruenerCornerbacks (6): Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr., Brandin Echols, Daylen EveretteSafeties (4): DeShon Elliott, Jaquan Brisker, Rayshawn Jenkins, Robert Spears-JenningsSpecial Teams (3)Kicker (1): Chris BoswellPunter (1): Cameron JohnstonLong Snapper (1): Christian Kuntz
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Asking AI to predict the Steelers 53-man roster
#steelers #line #sunday
2 months ago
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington received a huge nod of confidence from ESPN as they issued their 2026 NFL Future Power Rankings. In the rankings, which project team success from 2027 through 2029, ***** yst Seth Walder offered a high-upside prediction for Pittsburgh's towering third-year tight end, Darnell Washington.
Despite playing behind Pat Freiermuth on the depth chart, Washington's underlying efficiency metrics suggest a massive breakout awaits as his role expands.
"Bold prediction for 2027-29: Tight end Darnell Washington will make the top 10 in Jeremy Fowler's annual survey of coaches and executives on the best players at every position," wrote Walder for ESPN. "He might be the Steelers' No. 2 tight end at the moment, but Washington averaged 1.9 yards per route run last season and was in the 83rd percentile among tight ends in run block win rate. Tight end is a position where players can develop slowly, so he has plenty of time to increase his role."
Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 264 pounds, the Georgia product was drafted primarily for his formidable blocking ability. However, the data reveals a far more versatile weapon. Averaging 1.9 yards per route run places Washington among efficient pass-catchers, while his 83rd percentile mark in run block win rate demonstrates his elite utility in heavy formations.
Because tight ends traditionally require longer developmental ramps to master both inline blocking and complex route trees, Washington's steady statistical progression bodes well for his future.
#steelers
Despite playing behind Pat Freiermuth on the depth chart, Washington's underlying efficiency metrics suggest a massive breakout awaits as his role expands.
"Bold prediction for 2027-29: Tight end Darnell Washington will make the top 10 in Jeremy Fowler's annual survey of coaches and executives on the best players at every position," wrote Walder for ESPN. "He might be the Steelers' No. 2 tight end at the moment, but Washington averaged 1.9 yards per route run last season and was in the 83rd percentile among tight ends in run block win rate. Tight end is a position where players can develop slowly, so he has plenty of time to increase his role."
Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 264 pounds, the Georgia product was drafted primarily for his formidable blocking ability. However, the data reveals a far more versatile weapon. Averaging 1.9 yards per route run places Washington among efficient pass-catchers, while his 83rd percentile mark in run block win rate demonstrates his elite utility in heavy formations.
Because tight ends traditionally require longer developmental ramps to master both inline blocking and complex route trees, Washington's steady statistical progression bodes well for his future.
#steelers
2 months ago
The Steelers are looking to find even more ways to utilize tight end Pat Freiermuth.
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio said the Steelers will continue to "push the envelope" with Freiermuth's usage, especially when the coaching staff recognizes opportunities to isolate him one-on-one against opposing defenders.
"Pat's done a great job of controlling the middle of the field," Angelichio said.
Freiermuth has established himself as one of Pittsburgh's most reliable receiving options since entering the NFL, and the Steelers appear intent on taking advantage of his combination of size, hands and route-running ability. His presence in the middle can create matchup problems against linebackers while also forcing safeties to account for him, potentially opening opportunities elsewhere in the passing game.
Last year he only hauled in 41 passes for 486 yards, as former OC Arthur Smith seemed to favor both Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington.
#freiermuth #angelichio
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio said the Steelers will continue to "push the envelope" with Freiermuth's usage, especially when the coaching staff recognizes opportunities to isolate him one-on-one against opposing defenders.
"Pat's done a great job of controlling the middle of the field," Angelichio said.
Freiermuth has established himself as one of Pittsburgh's most reliable receiving options since entering the NFL, and the Steelers appear intent on taking advantage of his combination of size, hands and route-running ability. His presence in the middle can create matchup problems against linebackers while also forcing safeties to account for him, potentially opening opportunities elsewhere in the passing game.
Last year he only hauled in 41 passes for 486 yards, as former OC Arthur Smith seemed to favor both Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington.
#freiermuth #angelichio
3 months ago
The Pittsburgh Steelers are full steam ahead as training camp continues to roll on, with several player performances offering excitement — and concern — through two days of practice.
From two players putting together back-to-back standout performances to a second-year quarterback ending practice on a low point, here are the biggest winners and losers from Day 2 of training camp.
Wilson was already garnering buzz as one of Aaron Rodgers' top targets on Day 1, and the young receiver looked even more impressive on Day 2. The Rodgers-to-Wilson connection looks incredible through two days of practice, and it's definitely one to keep an eye on over the next month.
It was another standout day for Samuel, who made some great plays in his first practice in Latrobe. Samuel made a beautiful pass defense on a deep ball intended for Pat Freiermuth and is steadily emerging as one of Pittsburgh's top cornerbacks.
Chris Boswell looked in midseason form, and Cameron Johnston was punting bombs on the second day of practice. The veterans of the group delivered two standout special teams performances. Oh, and as an added bonus, Travis Homer was playing a big role on special teams that was last held by former All-Pro Steeler Miles Killebrew. Homer's special teams versatility could land him a spot on the 53-man roster.
#teams #training
From two players putting together back-to-back standout performances to a second-year quarterback ending practice on a low point, here are the biggest winners and losers from Day 2 of training camp.
Wilson was already garnering buzz as one of Aaron Rodgers' top targets on Day 1, and the young receiver looked even more impressive on Day 2. The Rodgers-to-Wilson connection looks incredible through two days of practice, and it's definitely one to keep an eye on over the next month.
It was another standout day for Samuel, who made some great plays in his first practice in Latrobe. Samuel made a beautiful pass defense on a deep ball intended for Pat Freiermuth and is steadily emerging as one of Pittsburgh's top cornerbacks.
Chris Boswell looked in midseason form, and Cameron Johnston was punting bombs on the second day of practice. The veterans of the group delivered two standout special teams performances. Oh, and as an added bonus, Travis Homer was playing a big role on special teams that was last held by former All-Pro Steeler Miles Killebrew. Homer's special teams versatility could land him a spot on the 53-man roster.
#teams #training
3 months ago
Jonnu Smith is gone, clearing the way for Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth to once again resume his role as the team's top tight end in 2026. At least, that's what we're hoping for.
From now until the start of the regular season, we at Steelers Wire will be ***** yzing every player on the roster. Here's a look at Freiermuth and what could be in store for his 2026 season.
Height: 6-foot-five
Weight: 258 pounds
Age: 27 years old
#jonnu #wire
From now until the start of the regular season, we at Steelers Wire will be ***** yzing every player on the roster. Here's a look at Freiermuth and what could be in store for his 2026 season.
Height: 6-foot-five
Weight: 258 pounds
Age: 27 years old
#jonnu #wire
3 months ago
Aaron Rodgers' bonding week with his Pittsburgh Steelers teammates has gone viral over the past several days. And one particularly interesting storyline was the absence of two key Steelers players.
While Rodgers brought along six teammates, Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Ben Skowronek, and Mason Rudolph, Steelers quarterback Will Howard and tight end Darnell Washington were nowhere to be seen. And considering how hard it is to miss the 6-foot-7 Washington, there's been a real debate about what these absences could mean.
For Howard, this could mean that the backup quarterback job isn't as one-sided as previously believed. Rudolph appeared to throw his name back into the hat with his inclusion at Rodgers' bonding week.
Washington's absence was less concerning, as the giant, 300-plus-pound playmaker has carved out a role for himself as one of the NFL's best blocking tight ends that's dangerous after the catch.
These two Steelers will definitely be players to keep a close eye on as training camp arrives in a few weeks, as Howard and Washington look to battle with Rudolph and Freiermuth, respectively, for a bigger role on the team.
While Rodgers brought along six teammates, Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, Ben Skowronek, and Mason Rudolph, Steelers quarterback Will Howard and tight end Darnell Washington were nowhere to be seen. And considering how hard it is to miss the 6-foot-7 Washington, there's been a real debate about what these absences could mean.
For Howard, this could mean that the backup quarterback job isn't as one-sided as previously believed. Rudolph appeared to throw his name back into the hat with his inclusion at Rodgers' bonding week.
Washington's absence was less concerning, as the giant, 300-plus-pound playmaker has carved out a role for himself as one of the NFL's best blocking tight ends that's dangerous after the catch.
These two Steelers will definitely be players to keep a close eye on as training camp arrives in a few weeks, as Howard and Washington look to battle with Rudolph and Freiermuth, respectively, for a bigger role on the team.
3 months ago
Aaron Rodgers is doing some team-building roughly two weeks before the Pittsburgh Steelers report for training camp.
Going into his 23rd NFL season, the four-time MVP wants to make sure his final season is a memorable one. And he gathered a handful of teammates from the Steelers offense for a trip to bond before the work of the 2026-27 campaign really begins.
Rodgers posted a photo of himself with receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Ben Skowronek, Roman Wilson and DK Metcalf, along with quarterback Mason Rudolph and tight end Pat Freiermuth from an undisclosed location.
Whereever the photo was taken from (Rodgers also posted another one that was sharper), perhaps somewhere out West, there is plenty of wide-open ***** e to work on some pass routes. But maybe they’re saving the football stuff for when they report to Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Accompanying the image, Rodgers wrote “Last Rodeo,” reminding everyone that this will be his last season and these are the guys who will help him through it. The caption also included the hashtag “#bondingweek,” indicating the purpose of this excursion.
Going into his 23rd NFL season, the four-time MVP wants to make sure his final season is a memorable one. And he gathered a handful of teammates from the Steelers offense for a trip to bond before the work of the 2026-27 campaign really begins.
Rodgers posted a photo of himself with receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Ben Skowronek, Roman Wilson and DK Metcalf, along with quarterback Mason Rudolph and tight end Pat Freiermuth from an undisclosed location.
Whereever the photo was taken from (Rodgers also posted another one that was sharper), perhaps somewhere out West, there is plenty of wide-open ***** e to work on some pass routes. But maybe they’re saving the football stuff for when they report to Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Accompanying the image, Rodgers wrote “Last Rodeo,” reminding everyone that this will be his last season and these are the guys who will help him through it. The caption also included the hashtag “#bondingweek,” indicating the purpose of this excursion.
3 months ago
An invitation to the Travis Kelce-Taylor Swift wedding was one kind of exclusive. Another recent NFL-related gathering took exclusive to another level.
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has posted on Instagram a photos of a gathering with six of his Steelers teammates: Michael Pittman Jr., Ben Skowronek, Roman Wilston, Mason Rudolph, DK Metcalf, and Pat Freiermuth.
The caption is "Last Rodeo," along with "#bondingweek."
The images include horses, cowboy hats, and campfires. The setting wide open and outdoors, with strong to quite strong Teton River vibes.
Rodgers has said this will be his final season. The "Last Rodeo" label further confirm it, setting up the 2026 season to be the rare full-season farewell tour for a franchise quarterback.
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has posted on Instagram a photos of a gathering with six of his Steelers teammates: Michael Pittman Jr., Ben Skowronek, Roman Wilston, Mason Rudolph, DK Metcalf, and Pat Freiermuth.
The caption is "Last Rodeo," along with "#bondingweek."
The images include horses, cowboy hats, and campfires. The setting wide open and outdoors, with strong to quite strong Teton River vibes.
Rodgers has said this will be his final season. The "Last Rodeo" label further confirm it, setting up the 2026 season to be the rare full-season farewell tour for a franchise quarterback.
