Mike Tomlin Addresses Pat Freiermuth’s Reduced Role, Hints Steelers Could Explore Trade Options
Veteran tight end Pat Freiermuth played a career-low 15 offensive snaps in the Steelers’ Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings — a move that immediately drew attention from both fans and analysts. The drop-off in playing time raised eyebrows across Pittsburgh, especially given Freiermuth’s $12 million annual salary and his established role as a key part of the offense.
Head coach Mike Tomlin didn’t shy away from the topic when speaking to reporters, explaining that the shift was a deliberate tactical decision. “We have a certain personality, especially when we play 4-3 teams. I haven’t been bashful about that,” Tomlin said. “That’s why we drafted Darnell Washington. You can’t play 4-3 teams with 250-pound tight ends. You can’t. The weight class is in combat sports for a reason. So, when the edge people are 300 pounds, you better have somebody out there that looks like that animal.”
That philosophy led to Washington logging a season-high 48 snaps, alongside offensive lineman Spencer Anderson, while Freiermuth was limited to just 15. The result? Pittsburgh recorded a season-best 131 rushing yards — doubling their previous high.
Tomlin acknowledged that some might question the decision, but remained firm about the direction moving forward. “Certainly, as we move into divisional play in the next couple weeks, and we’re playing two 4-3 teams, certainly you’re going to see more of that,” Tomlin stated. “It’s unfair at times to ask guys like Pat Freiermuth and Connor [Heyward] to block 4-3 ends. That’s not realistic if you want to have a real good run game day.”
Still, whispers around the organization suggest this may not just be about matchups. According to team insiders, Tomlin and GM Omar Khan could be exploring potential trade options for Freiermuth if his snap count continues to decline — a move that would free cap space and allow Washington to take on a larger role.
While Tomlin hasn’t confirmed trade talks, his candid tone hinted that business decisions might soon follow football logic. “You always evaluate what gives your team the best chance to win,” he said when pressed on Freiermuth’s future. “Right now, our focus is on fielding the most physical group possible. Everything else, we’ll handle when the time’s right.”
For now, the Steelers’ tight end room remains in flux — with Washington emerging as a clear favorite for heavy offensive sets, and Freiermuth’s future in black and gold suddenly uncertain.
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