Star TE Signs 4-Year, $48M Steelers Extension After Turning Down $56M Offer
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When a player signs a long-term extension, fans often assume it's all about the money. But sometimes, loyalty runs deeper — and in this case, it runs through the heart of Pittsburgh.
During Training Camp 2025, a story quietly surfaced about a tight end who had already agreed to a 4-year, $48 million extension with the Steelers back in 2024. But what wasn’t known — until now — is that he turned down a $56 million offer from another team before signing that deal.
Why?
“Money isn’t everything,” he finally shared this week.
“I’ve built something here. This city, this team — it’s more than football. It’s family. This is home.”
The deal, signed with little fanfare at the time, now takes on greater meaning. The TE had other options — more lucrative ones — but chose to stay in black and gold, even if it meant leaving $8 million on the table.
His decision speaks volumes, not only about who he is as a player, but who he is as a person. Coaches call him the ultimate teammate. Fans call him a future legend. And in that locker room, he's respected as a leader who values legacy over luxury.
“I’ve caught touchdowns here. I’ve lost here. I’ve grown up here,” he added.
“I’m not just here to play ball. I’m here to win — for this city.”
That tight end?
Pat Freiermuth.
And now, his name carries even more weight — not just for the plays he makes, but for the loyalty he showed when it mattered most.
