Pat Freiermuth Injury News & Updates

Freiermuth secured his lone target for 19 yards during Sunday's 34-12 win over Cincinnati.

Although Freiermuth ended his four-game streak of multi-reception games Sunday, he was somewhat efficient on his lone target against the Bengals. Although Freiermuth has remained inconsistent in recent weeks, his fantasy production has certainly been better than it was over his first five appearances of the year. Across his last five outings, Freiermuth has secured 15 of 18 targets for 203 yards and three touchdowns, and he's been a more reliable option than teammate Jonnu Smith during that time.

Freiermuth secured all three of his targets for 33 yards during Sunday's 25-10 loss to the Chargers.

Freiermuth was on the field for 50 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps Sunday, which ranked second among the team's tight ends. However, he was somewhat involved in the passing game and recorded his second-highest yardage total of the season in the loss. Freiermuth has logged at least three receptions in each of his last four appearances, securing 14 of 17 targets for 184 yards and three touchdowns during that time.

Freiermuth secured three of four targets for 27 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 27-20 win over the Colts.

Freiermuth didn't practice Wednesday due to a quad injury but returned as a full participant a day later and didn't appear to have any limitations in Sunday's Week 9 win. He's had at least three catches in each of his last three appearances, securing 11 of 14 targets for 151 yards and three touchdowns during that time.

Freiermuth (quadricep) was a full participant at Thursday's practice.

Freiermuth returned Thursday after sitting out Wednesday's practice. He's poised to suit up and play his usual role Sunday against the Colts as part of a crowded Steelers tight end room that also devotes significant playing time to Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington.

Freiermuth (quadriceps) did not practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth appears to have picked up a quad injury during Pittsburgh's loss to the Packers in Week 8, in which he secured three of four targets for 14 yards and briefly left the field in the third quarter. That veteran tight end was able to return to action versus Green Bay is encouraging as to his chances of being cleared to suit up versus the Colts on Sunday. If Freiermuth were to miss any time, however, Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington would stand to benefit from a slight uptick in target consolidation to the tight end position.

Freiermuth secured three of four targets for 13 yards during Sunday's 35-25 loss to the Packers.

Freiermuth racked up a season-high 111 receiving yards and two touchdowns during last week's loss to Cincinnati, but he had limited production in Week 8. He briefly exited the game due to injury in the third quarter, but it seems unlikely that the issue significantly impacted his performance given his speedy return. Freiermuth has had to compete with Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington for work at tight end over the first half of the year, making all three players difficult to trust in fantasy.

Freiermuth brought in five of six targets for 111 yards and two touchdowns in the Steelers' 33-31 loss to the Bengals on Thursday night.

Freiermuth's performance would have naturally been all the sweeter in a victory from the Steelers' perspective, but fantasy managers certainly had to be thrilled with a night that featured the second-highest yardage tally of the veteran tight end's career. Freiermuth struck from 19 and 68 yards away in the second half, the latter score coming with just 2:21 remaining and erasing a 30-24 deficit. While Joe Flacco was subsequently able to drive Cincinnati into position for a game-winning field goal, Freiermuth's breakout effort was an especially welcome sight after he'd mustered a 2-17-0 line on four targets over the previous three games. The fifth-year pro will aim to carry over the momentum into a Week 8 Sunday night home battle against the Packers on Oct. 26.

Freiermuth secured his lone target for 11 yards during Sunday's 23-9 win over the Browns.

Although Freiermuth recorded a catch Sunday after being held without a target during the Steelers' Week 4 win over Minnesota, he was on the field for just 36 percent of Pittsburgh's offensive snaps against Cleveland, which ranked third among the team's tight ends. Darnell Washington has taken on a larger role over the last two games, and Freiermuth seems to be behind Washington and Jonnu Smith on the depth chart following Pittsburgh's Week 5 bye. Over his last three games, Freiermuth has secured two of four targets for 17 yards.

Freiermuth wasn't targeted during Sunday's 24-21 win over Minnesota.

After playing at least 50 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in the first three games of the season, Freiermuth's playing time declined overseas Sunday, as he was on the field for just 28 percent of the team's offensive snaps. Jonnu Smith also saw a limited role after dealing with a hip injury ahead of the Week 4 tilt, while Darnell Washington was on the field for a season-high 91 percent of Pittsburgh's offensive snaps. Even if Freiermuth's playing time bounces back following the Steelers' Week 5 bye, he's had trouble carving out a fantasy-relevant role early in the season.

Freiermuth secured one of three targets for six yards during Sunday's 21-14 win over the Patriots.

Freiermuth recorded three receptions in each of the first two weeks of the regular season, but he was held in check during Sunday's victory. However, he played 70 percent of the team's offensive snaps, which lagged just behind Jonnu Smith, who was on the field for 83 percent. Over the first three games of the year, Freiermuth has secured seven of 10 targets for 65 yards.

Freiermuth recorded three catches on four targets for 31 yards in Sunday's 31-17 loss to the Seahawks.

Freiermuth continues to split pass-catching duties at tight end with Jonnu Smith, though the duo is being utilized in different ways. Freiermuth drew a pair of downfield targets in Sunday's loss, and he managed to convert one for a 20-yard gain, while Smith was targeted more close to the line of scrimmage. Freiermuth also had a chance to score his first touchdown of the season, though teammate Calvin Austin inadvertently broke up the pass, resulting in an interception.

Freiermuth secured all three of his targets for 28 yards during Sunday's 34-32 win over the Jets.

Freiermuth led the Steelers' tight ends in snap count over his first four seasons in the league, but he has increased competition for playing time in 2025 after the team acquired Jonnu Smith from the Dolphins. Smith was on the field for 66 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in Week 1 compared to 50 percent for Freiermuth, and Smith also outpaced Freiermuth in targets (six) and receptions (five) while reaching the end zone once. However, Freiermuth was slightly more efficient from a yardage standpoint, averaging 9.3 yards per reception compared to 3.0 for Smith. While Freiermuth will likely continue to have a role in the Steelers' offense in 2025, his fantasy upside will presumably be more limited than it has been in previous seasons as long as Smith remains healthy.

Freiermuth caught both of his targets for six yards in Thursday's 19-10 preseason win over Carolina.

With Jonnu Smith still sidelined by a knee injury that the Steelers consider minor, Freiermuth didn't have much competition for first-team TE snaps on the first three drives. He suited up along with most other starters, although QB Aaron Rodgers and WR DK Metcalf were held out ahead of a Week 1 matchup with the Jets. The fantasy outlook for Freiermuth was more promising before Pittsburgh traded for Smith this summer, but Freiermuth may still get most of the work in clear passing situations.

Freiermuth will play alongside fellow tight end Jonnu Smith after the Steelers traded for Smith on Monday, Steelers Now reports.

Coming off an 88-catch breakout campaign while playing in all 17 regular-season games, Smith represents a threat to Freiermuth's playing time in 11 personnel even if they can work together symbiotically in multi-TE formations. Freiermuth is entering the first season of a four-year, $48.4 million contract extension, while Smith just signed a one-year, $12 million extension through 2026. Both tight ends will find it difficult to approach their 2024 volume, competing against each other (and WR DK Metcalf) for targets from a 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers in Arthur Smith's run-first offense.

Freiermuth will play alongside fellow tight end Jonnu Smith after the Steelers traded for Smith on Monday, Steelers Now reports.

Coming off an 88-catch breakout campaign, Smith represents a threat to Freiermuth's playing time in 11 personnel even if they can work together symbiotically in multi-TE formations. Freiermuth is entering the first season of a four-year, $48.4 million contract extension, while Smith just signed a one-year, $12 million extension through 2026. Both tight ends will find it difficult to approach their 2024 volume, competing against each other (and WR DK Metcalf) for targets from a 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers in Arthur Smith's run-first offense.

Freiermuth recorded three receptions on four targets for 15 yards in Saturday's 28-14 loss to the Ravens.

Freiermuth dropped a short pass on Pittsburgh's first play from scrimmage, which set the tone for his production in the game. His longest catch went for only nine yards, leading to a difficult close to the campaign. Even so, Freiermuth put together arguably his most well-rounded regular season as a pro, setting a career-high in receptions (65) while matching his career-best with seven touchdowns. After signing an extension last offseason, he'll be a key contributor to the Steelers' offense in 2025.

Freiermuth recorded eight receptions on 11 targets for 85 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 19-17 loss to the Bengals.

Freiermuth was the only impactful pass catcher for Pittsburgh, and he showed rapport with Russell Wilson in a late-game comeback attempt. His performance was highlighted by a 19-yard touchdown grab with eight minutes remaining in the contest, though he also chipped in gains of 17, 11 and 10 yards to post his highest yardage total of the season. The only drawback for Freiermuth was a drop in the final seconds that could have set the Steelers up for a game-winning field-goal attempt. Nevertheless, Freiermuth closes the regular season having matched his career-high with seven touchdowns while setting a new career-high with 65 catches. Given George Pickens' recent struggles, Freiermuth arguably enters the postseason as Wilson's most reliable pass catcher.

Freiermuth caught seven of eight targets for 60 yards in Wednesday's 29-10 loss to Kansas City.

The tight end led the Steelers in catches, targets and receiving yards on the day, benefitting from Russell Wilson being under constant pressure and needing to get rid of the ball quickly. Freiermuth is seven catches away from setting a new career high with 64, and he has a shot at reaching that mark in Week 18 against the Bengals -- he posted a season-best 6-68-1 line on seven targets in their first 2024 meeting.

Freiermuth recorded three receptions on three targets for 16 yards in Saturday's 34-17 loss to the Ravens.

Freiermuth had either topped 50 receiving yards or scored a touchdown in four straight games, though his momentum was halted in Saturday's loss. His longest gain went for just seven yards, and two of his catches came with Pittsburgh down multiple scores in the fourth quarter. Freiermuth should be more involved in Week 17 against the Chiefs, though his ability to rack up stats remains inconsistent.

Freiermuth recorded three receptions on six targets for 22 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Eagles.

Freiermuth saw an increase in role with George Pickens (hamstring) sidelined for the second consecutive week, though the Steelers offense never got going. His stat line was modest as a result, with his primary contribution being a nine-yard touchdown reception just before halftime. Freiermuth has now found the end zone in three straight games, while tallying at least three receptions in four straight contests.

Freiermuth recorded three receptions on three targets for 48 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-14 win over the Browns.

Russell Wilson only took to the air 26 times, leading to limited volume for all of Pittsburgh's pass catchers. Freiermuth made the most of his chances, highlighted by long gains of 21 and 20 yards -- the latter of which went for a touchdown. He has now found the end zone in three of his last five games and has at least 45 receiving yards in three straight contests after reaching that mark just once in his first 10 matchups.

Freiermuth recorded six receptions on seven targets for 68 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 44-38 win over the Bengals.

Freiermuth had been one of the only Steelers to not benefit much statistically from the switch to Russell Wilson in Week 7. That changed in Sunday's win, as he led the team in targets and matched his season high. He took advantage of that opportunity with a long 25-yard touchdown catch late in the third quarter and a 17-yard reception to help set up a field goal just before halftime. Even with the strong performance, Freiermuth topped 50 yards for just the fourth time in 12 games for the season.

Freiermuth secured all four of his targets for 59 yards in Thursday's 24-19 loss to Cleveland.

Freiermuth had been held under 20 receiving yards in four of his last five appearances, but he bounced back in Thursday's primetime matchup with a season-high 59 receiving yards. Over the first 11 games of the season, the 26-year-old has secured 35 of 40 targets for 354 yards and three touchdowns.

Freiermuth secured both of his targets for 14 yards during Sunday's 18-16 win over the Ravens.

Freiermuth's fantasy value in 2024 has depended largely on whether he reaches the end zone, and he had one of his worst performances of the year during Sunday's narrow win. The 26-year-old hasn't had more than three targets in any of his last six appearances, but he'll attempt to bounce back against the Browns on Thursday.

Freiermuth secured all three of his targets for 17 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 28-27 win over Washington.

Freiermuth tallied just 5.7 yards per target Sunday, his second-lowest mark of the season. However, he reached the end zone in the second quarter to prop up his fantasy line. The 2021 second-rounder has now been held below 20 receiving yards in three of his last four appearances, and he hasn't seen more than three targets in a game since Week 4. Sunday's score was his first of the season with Russell Wilson under center.

Freiermuth secured both of his targets for 19 yards during Monday's 26-18 win over the Giants.

Freiermuth tallied 51 receiving yards during his first week catching passes from Russell Wilson in Week 7, but he had less success in Week 8, being held under 20 receiving yards for just the second time this season. Freiermuth has had multiple receptions in each of the first eight games of the season, but he's been held to just two touchdowns and has failed to top 25 receiving yards in three of the last four matchups. The 26-year-old has secured 26 of 31 targets for 264 yards and two touchdowns over the first eight games of the season.

Freiermuth brought in two of three targets for 51 yards in Sunday's 37-15 win over the Jets.

Freiermuth finished second in receiving for the Steelers behind star wideout George Pickens (5-111-1). The 25-year-old Freiermuth did most of his damage on a 44-yard reception from new starting quarterback Russell Wilson in the lopsided victory. The starting tight end had only topped 50 yards in receiving just once during interim starter Justin Fields' six starts this season. The change at quarterback in Pittsburgh could spark an upward trend in Freiermuth's fantasy value heading into a Week 8 matchup against the Giants.

Freiermuth recorded two receptions on three targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 32-13 win over the Raiders.

Justin Fields threw for only 145 yards, so it should come as no surprise that the Steelers' pass catchers had very little production. Freiermuth appeared to be an exception as he hauled in a 14-yard touchdown early in the third quarter, only for it to be wiped away after it was determined that Fields had crossed the line of scrimmage before releasing the ball. Freiermuth is difficult to trust on a weekly basis due to Pittsburgh's poor passing offense, but he has been a regular red-zone target.

Freiermuth (calf) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Freiermuth upgraded to full practice participation Friday after being listed as limited Thursday. He'll continue to work as Pittsburgh's top tight end and will try to extend his touchdown streak to three games Sunday.

Freiermuth was a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a calf injury, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

It's a new addition to the injury report after Freiermuth wasn't listed Wednesday. An absence from practice Friday would hint at at a significant mid-week injury, whereas even limited participation likely would put the tight end on track to play this Sunday at Las Vegas.

Freiermuth caught all three of his targets for 22 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Cowboys. He also lost a fumble.

Freiermuth gave the Steelers a 17-13 lead in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter with a six-yard touchdown catch on a shovel pass. Most of his yardage came on a 19-yard pass from backup Kyle Allen while Fields missed two plays to be evaluated for a head injury in the third quarter. Unfortunately for Freiermuth's fantasy managers, he was credited with a lost fumble on the game's final play as the Steelers attempted a desperate series of laterals. Freiermuth has scored touchdowns in consecutive games heading into a Week 6 trip to Vegas.

Freiermuth recorded five receptions on seven targets for 57 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Colts.

Freiermuth was one of the few things the Pittsburgh offense had going in the first half, as he led the team in targets and yards. Though his usage faded in the final two quarters, this was still a promising performance for him as he managed both his first catch of 20 or more yards and touchdown of the season. Though it hadn't led to significant fantasy success prior to Sunday's matchup, Freiermuth has a clear role in the Pittsburgh offense as he now has at least four catches in all four games on the campaign.

Freiermuth secured four of five targets for 33 yards during Sunday's 20-10 win over the Chargers.

Freiermuth has recorded four catches in each of his first three appearances this season, but he hasn't logged more than 40 receiving yards in any of those games. His 7.6 yards per target to begin the year is the best mark of his career, but his 8.3 yards per catch are tied for his lowest mark since his rookie season in 2021. While the Steelers' offense has largely struggled to begin the year, it's been encouraging to see Freiermuth carve out a consistent target share.

Freiermuth recorded four receptions on four targets for 39 yards in Sunday's 13-6 win over Denver.

The Steelers ran a very conservative offense in the win, leaving Freiermith as the team's leader in receptions and yards. His longest gain of the day went for 14 yards midway through the first quarter, a catch that set up the only touchdown of the game for either team. Preseason concerns about a diminished role in the offense for Freiermuth appear unfounded through two games, but the lack of aggression has limited the potential of all of Pittsburgh's pass catchers.

Freiermuth secured all four of his targets for 27 yards during Sunday's 18-10 win over Atlanta.

Shortly after signing his four-year contract extension with the Steelers on Friday, Freiermuth was involved in the Steelers' Week 1 win, finishing second on the team in receptions and receiving yards. The 25-year-old was an inconsistent contributor during the 2023 campaign, including single-digit yards in three of his first four appearances of the season. However, he could see more targets in 2024 now that Diontae Johnson, Allen Robinson and Miles Boykin are no longer with the team.

Freiermuth signed a four-year, $48.4 million contract extension with the Steelers on Friday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

This move confirms recent rumblings that Pittsburgh was trying to get Freiermuth extended before the start of the regular season. Freiermuth is locked in through the end of the 2028 season, as the extension will kick in after the fourth and final year of his rookie contract wraps up in 2024. The 2021 second-round draft pick is looking to bounce back under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, starting with Sunday's game against the Falcons, after posting a career-low 308 receiving yards in the 2023 regular season.

Freiermuth recorded one reception on one target for 10 yards in Saturday's 9-3 preseason loss to the Bills.

Freiermuth made his lone catch on Pittsburgh's second possession, as he was hit in the right flat by Russell Wilson for a modest gain. Though Freiermuth has had limited production in two preseason games, he currently has a strong chance to be the second-most targeted pass catch in the offense come the regular season.

Freiermuth secured his lone target for six yards during Friday's 20-12 preseason loss to the Texans.

Freiermuth caught a short pass from Justin Fields on the Steelers' first drive of the game Friday, but the tight end was held in check for the other two drives in which the starters were on the field. The 2021 second-rounder took a step back last season, securing 32 of 47 targets for 308 yards and two touchdowns over 12 regular-season appearances, but he should have a chance to bounce back in 2024 since either Justin Fields or Russell Wilson will operate as the team's starting quarterback.

Freiermuth said Wednesday on the Around the 412 Podcast that he wants to stay in Pittsburgh for the rest of his career, per Chris Ward of Steelers Now.

The tight end is in a contract year, following a down 2023 season in which a hamstring injury cost him five games and may have limited his playing time in a few others. He caught nine passes for 120 yards in a Week 12 win over the Bengals and had five catches for 76 yards in a playoff loss to Buffalo, but otherwise Freiermuth had just 23 receptions for 188 yards and two TDs in 11 appearances. He was far more active in the passing game as a rookie (60-497-7) and again in 2022 (63-732-2), and he could be Option B behind WR George Pickens in 2024 after the Steelers hired OC Arthur Smith and traded WR Diontae Johnson to the Panthers. While Smith figures to prioritize the running game, his affinity for multi-TE formations could put Freiermuth in a near-every-down role for the first time (he averaged 42.7 snaps per game in 2021, 46.4 in 2022 and 39.5 in 2023).

Freiermuth brought in five of eight targets for 76 yards in the Steelers' 31-17 wild-card loss to the Bills on Monday afternoon. He also fumbled once but did not give up possession.

Freiermuth was the surprise leader in receiving yards and also shared the team lead in receptions for the Steelers, with Mason Rudolph frequently turning to the big tight end for quick-hitting passes. Freiermuth also boasted the longest catch of the day for Pittsburgh, a 33-yard first-quarter grab that ended with the third-year pro fumbling the ball and seeing it seemingly recovered by the Bills' Christian Benford, only to have both the on-field and replay officials rule that Benford hadn't secured possession inbounds. Freiermuth was significantly less involved as a receiver across his 12 regular-season games in 2023 after recording at least 60 catches in his first two campaigns, posting a 32-308-2 line on 47 targets. However, Freiermuth finished the campaign with a 23-248 tally over the final seven regular-season contests, a span that notably began with the first game following offensive coordinator Matt Canada's firing.

Freiermuth secured both of his targets for 21 yards during the Steelers' 17-10 win over the Ravens on Saturday.

Freiermuth had a lackluster second half of the regular season following a five-game absence earlier in the year, and he was held below 45 receiving yards for a sixth consecutive game Saturday. Across those six matchups, he secured 14 of 22 targets for 128 yards. The 2021 second-rounder reached the end zone just twice this season and hasn't been a prominent part of the passing game in recent weeks.

Freiermuth totaled three catches (on four targets) for 44 yards during Sunday's 30-23 win at Seattle.

Freiermuth wasn't looked at by quarterback Mason Rudolph in the latter's first start Week 16 against the Bengals, but the tight end was able to get in the act Sunday with his second-highest yardage tally of the year. With only three instances of 40-plus yards in 11 appearances on the campaign, though, Freiermuth is tough to trust in a Steelers offense with uncertainty under center and multiple options to feed in WRs George Pickens and Diontae Johnson and RB Jaylen Warren. Freiermuth may have a difficult time producing Week 18 on the road against the Ravens' fourth-ranked defense (302.1 yards per game).

Freiermuth wasn't targeted during the Steelers' 34-11 win over the Bengals on Saturday.

Freiermuth was listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's practice report, but he logged full practices to close out the week. His snap count remained steady in a matchup in which the Steelers' offense had a strong showing, but quarterback Mason Rudolph didn't target Freiermuth in the victory. Freiermuth had his best performance of the season against the Bengals in Week 12 by securing nine of 11 targets for 120 yards, but he's secured just nine of 16 targets for 63 yards over four games since then.

Freiermuth (knee) practiced fully Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official sitereports.

Freiermuth was deemed a limited participant Tuesday, but the tight end's return to a full practice a day later sets the stage for him to be available for Saturday's game against the Bengals. Freiermuth has recorded three-catch efforts in each of his last three outings, and apart from a nine-catch outburst in Week 12, he hasn't exceeded three catches in any of the nine contests he's suited up for this season.

Freiermuth was listed as limited on Tuesday's practice report due to a knee injury, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth previously sat out Weeks 5-10 due to a hamstring issue, but a different concern is impacting his reps to begin Week 16 prep. Since returning from injured reserve Week 11, he's hauled in 19 of 28 targets for 190 yards and no touchdowns, with most of that production coming Week 12 in Cincinnati (9-120-0 on 11 targets). As such, Freiermuth will be tough to trust for production Saturday versus the Bengals if he's able to suit up.

Freiermuth secured three of four targets for 16 yards during the Steelers' 30-13 loss to Indianapolis on Saturday.

Freiermuth had a standout performance against the Bengals in Week 12 when he secured nine of 11 targets for 120 yards, but his impact has been much more limited over three appearances since then. Across the last three matchups, he's secured nine of 16 targets for 63 yards, and he's been held below 30 receiving yards in each of those outings. The 25-year-old remains the top tight end for the Steelers and has some upside potential, but his recent results have been discouraging.

Freiermuth brought in three of seven targets for 18 yards and also recorded a two-point conversion catch in the Steelers' 21-18 loss to the Patriots on Thursday night.

Freiermuth was one of the statistical victims of Mitchell Trubisky's struggles with efficiency Thursday, finishing with his fifth sub-20-yard tally of the campaign in the process. The third-year tight end did manage to boost his overall fantasy production to a modest degree with his two-point conversion reception following the Steelers' final touchdown of the night in the fourth quarter. However, he remains very hard to trust heading into a Week 15 road matchup against the Colts on Saturday, Dec. 16 due to Pittsburgh's quarterback issues.

Freiermuth caught three of five targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 24-10 loss to the Cardinals.

Freiermuth came back down to earth after posting his first career 100-yard performance against the Bengals in the previous game. Starting quarterback Kenny Pickett hurt his ankle in the first half against Arizona, and Freiermuth couldn't get on the same page with backup Mitch Trubisky. With Pickett expected to remain sidelined Thursday against New England, Freiermuth will likely have Trubisky throwing to him again in Week 14.

Freiermuth recorded nine receptions on 11 targets for 120 yards in Sunday's 16-10 win over the Bengals.

George Pickens was the expected beneficiary of the Steelers' change in offensive coordinator, but Freiermuth was the most productive pass catcher for the team. He tallied the first 100-yard game of his career thanks to long catches of 29, 24 and 16 yards. It was a notable development for Freiermuth, as Pittsburgh has struggled to complete passes over the middle of the field this season, and as a result, he had double-digit receiving yards just once in a game entering Sunday's contest.

Freiermuth recorded one reception on one target for seven yards in Sunday's 13-10 loss to the Browns.

Freiermuth was activated from injured reserve prior to Sunday's game and took the field for the first time since Week 4. The entire Pittsburgh offense was muted, and his results were no different. Prior to going down with the injury, Freiermuth had inconsistent usage but never saw more than four targets in a game. Given the current state of the Steelers' offense, it's difficult to project consistent volume for him moving forward.

Freiermuth (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Browns, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth is back in action Week 11 after he missed the Steelers' last five games with a hamstring injury. Before being reinstated from injured reserve Saturday, Freiermuth turned in full practices Thursday and Friday, so he's unlikely to face any major restrictions as he steps back into the lineup as the Steelers' top tight end. Freiermuth supplied an 8-53-2 receiving line on 13 targets in his first four appearances of the season before missing time with the hamstring issue.

The Steelers activated Freiermuth (hamstring) from injured reserve Saturday.

Freiermuth now appears on track for Sunday's game against the Browns, but official word on his status may have to wait until 90 minutes before the game's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff. The starting tight end hasn't played since Week 4 due to a hamstring issue, and his return could provide a notable boost for Pittsburgh's passing game. Though Freiermuth is only averaging 13.3 yards per game this season, he did score twice across four appearances.

The Steelers are expected to add Freiermuth (hamstring) to the 53-man roster Saturday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Freiermuth was designated for a return to practice from IR earlier this week, and it looks like he's on track to gain full clearance in time for Sunday's divisional matchup against the Browns. If so, Pittsburgh will officially announce the transaction ahead of Saturday's 4:00 p.m. ET deadline. If back on the field, Freiermuth will offer a notable boost for Kenny Pickett and the Steelers' passing game versus Cleveland.

Freiermuth (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Browns, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

Freiermuth is on track to play after closing out the week with back-to-back full practices, but we won't know for sure until the Steelers activate him from injured reserve (or not). The deadline is 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, and quotes from the tight end dating back to last week suggest he expects to return from a four-game absence for Sunday's AFC North matchup. Connor Heyward and Darnell Washington split TE snaps for Pittsburgh the past four weeks, combining for 14 catches and 108 yards without scoring any touchdowns. A healthy Freiermuth should be a big upgrade for the passing game, even if he doesn't take on an every-down role his first week back.

Freiermuth (hamstring) was a full participant in Thursday's practice, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth's reps were capped Wednesday in what was his first practice session since Week 4, but his ability to take every rep a day later seemingly has him trending toward making his return to the lineup Sunday at Cleveland. For his part, Freiermuth said that he's felt "amazing" during his first two practices this week, but the Steelers' coaching and training staff will continue to monitor him before deciding on his status for the Week 11 game. If available this weekend, Freiermuth should reclaim duties as the Steelers' top tight end from Connor Heyward, who has cobbled together a 15-118-0 receiving line on 20 targets during Freiermuth's five-game absence.

Freiermuth (hamstring) was a limited participant Wednesday in his return to practice.

The Steelers are designating their starting tight end to return from injured reserve after he missed the minimum of four games. That doesn't automatically mean he'll play against the Browns on Sunday, but Freiermuth at least has taken a big first step toward making that happen, with Adam Schefter of ESPN reporting Wednesday that the tight end is "tracking to play" in the AFC North matchup this weekend.

The Steelers announced Wednesday that Freiermuth (hamstring) has been designated to return from IR, Adam Schefter of ESPNreports.

Freiermuth's 21-day practice window now opens, with Schefter reporting that the tight end is expected to be officially added to the active roster in time for Sunday's game against the Browns. The starting tight end has already missed a requisite four games on injured reserve due to a hamstring issue. In four appearances this season Freiermuth failed to reach double-digit receiving yards three times, with a 3-41-1 receiving line on four targets in the other contest.

Freiermuth (hamstring) plans to resume practicing next week and hopes to be ready when first eligible to play Week 11 at Cleveland, Alan Saunders of Steelers Now reports.

Freiermuth has been dealing with a hamstring injury since Week 4 and was placed on injured reserve before Week 7. He'll miss a fourth straight game when the Steelers host the Packers this Sunday, but after that he's eligible to return and apparently has a realistic chance to do so. He did side work while his teammates practiced Wednesday, including sprints, and told reporters afterward that he didn't want to "jinx" anything by being too optimistic/hopeful. Connor Heyward and Darnell Washington have been filling in at tight end, with Heyward running the most routes but losing a bit more playing time to the rookie of late.

Freiermuth (hamstring) was placed on injured reserve Saturday.

The big tight end evidently suffered some sort of setback after practicing fully Wednesday following the team's Week 5 bye, logging a LP and DNP sequence in the ensuing days. In Freiermuth's lone Week 4 absence rookie third-round pick Darnell Washington saw a significant rise in snaps, but it was Connor Heyward who ultimately saw significantly more targets.

Freiermuth (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Freiermuth's week got off to a promising start when he practiced fully Wednesday, but he was limited Thursday and didn't practice at all Friday. In Freiermuth's absence, rookie Darnell Washington is likely to lead Pittsburgh's tight ends in snaps, but the majority of pass catching opportunities could go to Connor Heyward, who has 10 targets to Washington's three this season. The Rams have allowed 414 receiving yards to tight ends, which is third-most in the NFL.

Freiermuth (hamstring) is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Rams, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Per Pelissero, Freiermuth aggravated his hamstring injury during practice Thursday, and now it looks like he'll be sidelined Sunday and possibly beyond. Official confirmation of Freiermuth's Week 7 status will arrive later Friday, but if he is ruled out, fellow TE Darnell Washington would continue to see added work in the Steelers offense.

Freiermuth (hamstring) was limited at Thursday's practice.

Freiermuth worked fully Wednesday in the Steelers' first practice after a bye week, so his limited participation Thursday is notable. It remains to be seen if the listing is indicative of load management or a setback, and added context on that front will arrive no later than Friday, when the team's final injury report for Sunday's game against the Rams is posted.

Freiermuth (hamstring) practiced fully Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth missed the Steelers' Week 5 win over the Ravens with a hamstring injury, but the team's subsequent bye gave the tight end the time he needed to get back to 100 percent in advance of this Sunday's game against the Rams. "I will be good to go this week," Freiermuth said Wednesday. "I am excited to get back out there. I feel good." In the four games Freiermuth has played this season, he's been limited to eight catches on 13 targets for 53 yards and two TDs, but now that he's set to re-enter the lineup in Week 7, the 2021 second-rounder has a chance to pick up the pace in a Pittsburgh passing offense that could also welcome back WR Diontae Johnson (hamstring, IR-R), who logged a full practice Wednesday.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said he expects Freiermuth to practice Wednesday, Dale Lolley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Tomlin didn't disclose whether Freiermuth will be returning as a limited or full practice participant, but the tight end's ability to get on the field in any capacity to begin the week is a promising sign after he sat out the Steelers' Week 5 win over the Ravens with the hamstring injury. With a Week 6 bye to heal up from the injury, Freiermuth appears to be tracking toward a return to the lineup this Sunday versus the Rams.

Freiermuth (hamstring) said Monday he expects to suit up versus the Rams in Week 7, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Freiermuth appears to have made significant strides in his recovery during Pittsburgh's bye. The starting tight end's hamstring strain sidelined him Week 5 versus the Ravens, but the timing of the Steelers' bye could ultimately mean that Freiermuth is only forced to miss one game. It will be worth closely monitoring his practice status when Wednesday's first official injury report of the week is released.

Freiermuth (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth didn't practice all week and with the Steelers on bye in Week 6, the tight end's next chance to see game action will arrive Oct. 22 against the Rams. Given that Freiermuth is out this weekend, rookie Darnell Washington figures to see an increased role and could get his first NFL start versus Baltimore, with Connor Heyward and Rodney Williams also on hand.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin labeled Freiermuth (hamstring) as "very doubtful" for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

The Steelers may wait until Friday to formally rule Freiermuth out for Sunday's game, but the tight end doesn't look on track to practice in any capacity this week after exiting the Week 4 loss to the Texans with the hamstring injury. Expect rookie Darnell Washington serve as the Steelers' starting tight end in Freiermuth's stead Week 5, while second-year man Connor Heyward is also likely to see increased reps.

Freiermuth (hamstring) is expected to miss two-to-three weeks, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

After Freiermuth went down with a hamstring injury in Sunday's 30-6 loss to the Texans, the tight end appears likely to miss multiple contests. The Steelers are already without wide receiver Diontae Johnson (hamstring) until at least Week 7 while he's on injured reserve, so players like George Pickens and Calvin Austin could see a slight uptick in usage next week versus Baltimore. Rookie tight end Darnell Washington will have an opportunity to serve as the team's starter for the time being.

Freiermuth is scheduled to receive a scan on his hamstring Monday, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

The upcoming test on Freiermuth's hamstring should reveal the extent of his injury, but Dulac notes that the tight end is dealing with more than a minor tweak. With that in mind, Freiermuth's status for the Steelers' Week 5 game against the Ravens appears to be firmly up in the air, after the hamstring injury forced him out in the second half of Sunday's loss to the Texans. Rookie Darnell Washington would likely be in line to start at tight end Week 5 if Freiermuth isn't available, while second-year player Connor Heyward could also see an expanded profile on offense.

Freiermuth won't return to Sunday's game against the Texans due to a hamstring injury, Burt Lauten of Steelers.com reports.

Before being forced out of the contest, Freiermuth caught three of his four targets for seven yards. In his absence, Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward are next in line for the Steelers' TE snaps/targets.

Freiermuth had three receptions on four targets for 41 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-18 win over Las Vegas.

Freiermuth finally delivered a complete line for fantasy managers after a pair of one-catch games to start the year. The 2021 second-round pick finished tied for second in targets in a game where the Steelers had more rushing than passing attempts. Freiermuth has an opportunity to become quarterback Kenny Pickett's No. 2 option with Diontae Johnson (hamstring) on IR and Allen Robinson struggling to fit into Pittsburgh's offense.

Freiermuth secured his lone target for two yards during the Steelers' 26-22 win over the Browns on Monday.

Freiermuth exited last week's regular-season opener with a chest injury but didn't appear to have significant limitations Monday while playing 76 percent of the team's offensive snaps. While the 2021 second-rounder managed to prop up his fantasy output by reaching the end zone in Week 1, he was unable to do the same against Cleveland in primetime. Freiermuth has had a slow start to the season, securing two of five targets for five yards and a touchdown, but he'll have a more favorable matchup against Las Vegas on Sunday.

Freiermuth (chest) was a full participant in Friday's practice.

It's an upgrade for Freiermuth after he was limited Thursday. It puts the third-year tight end on track to play Monday night against the Browns. We'll get an official injury designation for Freiermuth on Saturday, but fantasy players can tentatively leave the TE1 in lineups.

Freiermuth (chest) was limited in Thursday's practice.

Freiermuth took a big hit from Ambry Thomas in the Steelers' Week 1 loss to the 49ers and had to leave the game. He made his one catch count, however, securing a three-yard touchdown. The Steelers host the Browns Monday night, giving Freiermuth an extra day to get closer to 100 percent.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Freiermuth (chest) may be limited to begin Week 2 prep, but he's optimistic about the tight end's health, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Freiermuth was on the receiving end of a big hit from the 49ers' Ambry Thomas just before halftime of Sunday's season opener, but the former stayed in the game and scored the Steelers' only touchdown of the game before departing in the second half. A chest injury is to blame, but with an extra day to prepare for Monday's contest against the Browns, he may have a better chance to miss no game action. Thursday's practice report could set the tone for his Week 2 availability.

Freiermuth was forced out of Sunday's game against the 49ers with a chest injury, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Prior to his exit from the contest, Freiermuth caught his only target for a three-yard TD. In his absence, Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward are next up for the Steelers' TE reps.

Freiermuth wasn't targeted in Thursday's preseason game at Atlanta and finishes the preseason with two catches for 31 yards and a touchdown.

The tight end accounted for only two of 15 targets from QB Kenny Pickett this preseason, but Freiermuth is still a strong candidate to serve as the third option (or even second) in an offense that figures to start Diontae Johnson and George Pickens at wide receiver while using Allen Robinson as the No. 3 and primary slot man. The Steelers also have capable pass catchers in the backfield between Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, giving Pickett quite a few options heading into Week 1 against the Niners.

Freiermuth and the rest of the Steelers' starting offense are slated to play up to three series in Thursday's preseason game at Atlanta, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reports.

Freiermuth has logged exactly seven offensive snaps in both of Pittsburgh's exhibitions to date, and both of his catches (and targets) have gone for 25-yard touchdowns. It's tough to expect him to strike again with quarterback Kenny Pickett, but Freiermuth at least will be afforded the opportunity to do so.

Freiermuth recorded one reception on one target for 25 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 25-17 win over the Bills on Saturday.

Freiermuth capped the Steelers' second offensive possession with a long catch down the middle of the field for the score. He's played only briefly during the preseason, though he's still managed to show rapport with quarterback Kenny Pickett. It's unclear whether Freiermuth will suit up for Pittsburgh's third preseason game, but he appears to be ready for the regular season.

Freiermuth (knee) did team drills Thursday at the first practice of training camp, Jeff Hathhorn of 93.7 The FAN reports.

This come as no surprise given that Freiermuth participated in OTA practices in late May and June. He avoided offseason surgery after suffering MCL and ACL sprains in Week 18 last season, and he's locked in as one of the top receiving threats for second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett.

Freiermuth (knee) has been practicing during OTAs this offseason, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Freiermuth sustained a knee sprain during the Steelers' regular-season finale in January, but he appears to be back to full health now that the team has begun offseason activities. The 24-year-old enters the 2023 campaign as Pittsburgh's clear No. 1 tight end after securing 63 of 98 targets for 732 yards and two touchdowns last season.

Freiermuth (knee) suffered a sprain during Sunday's 28-14 win over the Browns, Mark Kaboly of The Athletic reports.

Freiermuth was forced out of Sunday's season finale with a left knee sprain before recording a catch, but he's at least avoided a worst-case scenario injury. Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Freiermuth has an ACL and MCL sprain, but won't need surgery. What remains to be seen is whether Freiermuth will be ready for the start of offseason activities. He racked up 63 catches for 732 and two touchdowns on 98 targets in his second NFL season.

Freiermuth was forced out of Sunday's game against the Browns with a left knee injury, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Prior to his exit from the contest, Freiermuth didn't catch a pass. Connor Heyward and Zach Gentry will handle the reps at tight end for the Steelers for the rest of the game.

Freiermuth caught three of six targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 16-13 win over Baltimore.

Freiermuth was the Steelers' leading receiver in a contest where neither quarterback sniffed 200 yards passing. Aside from his zero-target game against the Panthers in Week 15, the reliable tight end has provided a solid floor for fantasy managers at a position without much stability in 2022. Freiermuth carries a 63-732-2 receiving line into the final tilt of the regular season against the Browns on Sunday.

Freiermuth recorded seven receptions on eight targets for 66 yards in Saturday's 13-10 win over the Raiders.

Freiermuth bounced back from a zero-catch performance in Week 15 to lead the Steelers in catches and yards. His effort was highlighted by 17 and 15-yard gains during the second half. Freiermuth has been affected by the Steelers' inconsistent offense, as he's topped 50 receiving yards in just three of his last seven games.

Freiermuth was not targeted in Sunday's 24-16 win over the Panthers.

Freiermuth's previous season low for targets was four, so Sunday's lack of involvement from quarterback Mitch Trubisky certainly came as a surprise. Following an uncharacteristic goose egg, Freiermuth will now wait to see whether rookie Kenny Pickett (concussion) can return for Week 16's game versus the Raiders.

Freiermuth (foot) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Panthers, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

One limited practice after two missed sessions was all it took to get Freiermuth's name off the injury report. The tight end will work as a security blanket for whichever quarterback gets the nod under center. Mason Rudolph and Mitch Trubisky split first-team reps during the week, while Kenny Pickett (concussion) is listed as doubtful.

Freiermuth (foot) didn't practice Thursday.

Back-to-back 'DNPs' make Freiermuth's status worth tracking as Sunday's game against the Panthers approaches. That said, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com previously noted that the tight end expects to play this weekend, a notion that would be supported by his return to practice, in any capacity, Friday.

Freiermuth (foot) didn't practice Wednesday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Per Pryor, Freiermuth indicated that he hurt his foot on his first catch this past Sunday against the Ravens. That said, while the tight end wasn't able to practice Wednesday, he expects to be available when the Steelers face the Panthers this weekend.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Freiermuth played through a foot injury in Sunday's 16-14 loss to the Ravens, Dale Lolley of the Steelers' official site reports.

The foot issue explains why Freiermuth played only 57 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in the loss, though the tight end at least came through for fantasy managers by coming through with three catches for 33 yards and a touchdown. The injury could be something that affects Freiermuth's practice participation in Week 15, but at this stage, the Steelers seem to believe that he'll be available for this Sunday's matchup with the Panthers.

Freiermuth secured three of six targets for 33 yards and a touchdown during the Steelers' 16-14 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.

While Freiermuth had his lowest yardage total since Week 5 during Sunday's narrow loss to Baltimore, he managed to reach the end zone for the first time since Week 2. However, the 24-year-old has seen a slight decrease in playing time recently, while Zach Gentry's snap count has increased. Despite the similar snap counts in recent weeks, Freiermuth has been much more involved in Pittsburgh's passing game. Over his five appearances since the Steelers' Week 9 bye, the 2021 second-rounder has secured 21 of 34 targets for 263 yards and a touchdown.

Freiermuth recorded three catches on five targets for 76 yards in Sunday's 19-16 win over the Falcons.

Freiermuth was involved early, tallying two receptions for 19 yards on Pittsburgh's first possession. He managed only one catch thereafter, though he accounted for Pittsburgh's longest play from scrimmage with a 57-yard catch midway through the second quarter. Freiermuth continues to serve as a key target for rookie Kenny Pickett, as he now has at least three catches in each of his last six games. In that same span, he's topped 75 yards on three occasions.

Freiermuth caught three of four targets for 39 yards in Monday's 24-17 win over the Colts.

His only catch of the second half was a big one, as Freiermuth gained 17 yards down to the three-yard line on third and six. Three plays later, Benny Snell punched in what turned out to be the game-winning touchdown on the ground. Freiermuth has at least 36 receiving yards in each of his past five games, but the second-year tight end will be looking for his first touchdown since Week 2 when the Steelers travel to Atlanta in Week 13.

Freiermuth caught eight of 12 targets for 79 yards in Sunday's 37-30 loss to the Bengals.

Freiermuth led the Steelers in targets for a second consecutive week while setting a new season high in that category and also tying his season-high total in catches. His only touchdown came back in Week 2, but the second-year tight end has racked up at least 75 receiving yards in four of nine appearances this season. Freiermuth should remain a key target for rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett in Week 12 against the Colts.

Freiermuth secured four of seven targets for 36 yards during the Steelers' 20-10 win over the Saints on Sunday.

Freiermuth has drawn at least seven targets in each of his three appearances since returning to action, but he managed only four receptions Sunday and was held under 40 yards for the third time this season. The 2021 second-rounder has nearly matched his yardage total from a year ago, as he's secured 36 of 55 targets for 403 yards and a touchdown over his first eight appearances in 2022.

Freiermuth recorded four receptions on seven targets for 57 yards in Sunday's 35-13 loss to the Eagles.

Freiermuth finished behind only Diontae Johnson in targets and has at least seven targets in five of his seven games this season. He wasn't particularly efficient in Sunday's loss, though he still managed lengthy receptions of 21 and 18 yards. Volume alone makes Freiermuth valuable given that he plays tight end, though the poor state of the Steelers' offense continues to limit his ability to find the end zone and perform consistently.

Freiermuth (ankle) returned to a full practice Thursday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

After being listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday, the Steelers' starting tight end logged a full session Thursday, setting the stage for Freiermuth to play this weekend against the Eagles. In his return from a one-game absence due to a concussion this past Sunday against Miami, the 2021 second-rounder recorded 44 of a possible 75 snaps on offense en route to catching eight of his nine targets for a team-high 75 yards. Against Philadelphia, Freiermuth should continue to see enough volume to merit Week 8 fantasy lineup consideration.

Freiermuth (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth, who missed his team's Week 6 win over the Buccaneers due to a concussion, returned to action in this past Sunday's loss to the Dolphins, logging 44 of a possible 75 snaps on offense en route to catching eight of his nine targets for 75 yards. Now that he's on the injury report with an ankle issue, the tight end's status is worth monitoring in the coming days, but so far there's nothing to suggest that Freiermuth's availability for Sunday's game against the Eagles is in danger.

Freiermuth secured eight of nine targets for 75 yards during the Steelers' 16-10 loss to Miami on Sunday.

Freiermuth missed last week's win over the Buccaneers due to a concussion, but he returned to action in Week 7 and led the Steelers in receiving yards during their narrow loss. The 23-year-old's efficiency has been somewhat inconsistent early in the year, but he's been targeted at least seven times in four of his first six appearances of the season.

Freiermuth has cleared the league's five-step concussion protocol Friday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Freiermuth is on track to return from a one-game absence and suit up versus the Dolphins on Sunday Night Football. Quarterback Kenny Pickett also cleared the concussion protocol Friday, so Pittsburgh's offense will be at full strength to take on Miami. The 2021 second-round pick has drawn at least seven targets in three of the four contests he finished this season.

Freiermuth (concussion) practiced fully again Thursday.

Freiermuth missed the the Steelers' Week 6 win over the Buccaneers while in the NFL's concussion protocol, but back-to-back full practices have the tight end on track to return to action Sunday against the Dolphins. Friday's final injury report will reveal whether Freiermuth has been fully cleared to play in the contest or heads into the weekend carrying an injury designation.

Freiermuth (concussion) was a full practice participant Wednesday.

The tight end likely will return for Sunday night's game against the Dolphins, but it won't be certain until the Steelers announce his removal from concussion protocol. Rookie QB Kenny Pickett (concussion) was also a full participant Wednesday, following an early exit from Sunday's win over the Bucs. Freiermuth missed the upset victory, leaving Zach Gentry and Connor Heyward to split TE snaps for Pittsburgh.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Freiermuth remains in the concussion protocol but is on track to increase his workload in practice this week, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

After sustaining the third concussion of his two-year professional career in the Steelers' Week 5 loss to the Bills, Freiermuth wasn't able to gain clearance to suit up in this past Sunday's victory over the Buccaneers. While Freiermuth isn't out of the woods yet, the tight end looks to be trending in the right direction for this weekend's game in Miami. Freiermuth managed only limited activity in practices last week, but Tomlin's comments offer hope that the 23-year-old may return to the practice field Wednesday as a full participant.

Freiermuth (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth, who suffered a concussion against the Bills last weekend, was listed as a limited practice participant this week, but he's still in the concussion protocol and will now look to gain clearance to play ahead of Week 7 action. In his absence, fellow TE Zach Gentry (who notched five catches against Buffalo) is line to see an expanded role versus Tampa Bay along with 2022 sixth-rounder Connor Heyward.

Freiermuth (concussion) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Pittsburgh also listed Freiermuth as a limited participant on its initial Week 6 injury report released Wednesday, so it's unclear if he's made any tangible progress through the NFL's five-step concussion protocol a day later. According to Curt Popejoy of USA Today, the concussion Freiermuth sustained in last Sunday's loss to the Bills was his third in his first two seasons in the NFL, and his history could make it tougher challenge for him to gain clearance from an independent neurologist in advance of this weekend's game against Tampa Bay. If Freiermuth isn't able to play, Zach Gentry and Connor Heyward would see increased roles at tight end.

Freiermuth (concussion) officially was limited at Wednesday's practice, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

During this past Sunday's blowout loss at Buffalo, Freiermuth made an early exit from the contest due to a concussion. After initially listing him as a non-participant on the first Week 6 injury report -- per Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site -- the team issued a correction Wednesday evening, saying he practiced in a limited capacity. With that knowledge, Freiermuth is further along in the protocol for head injuries than thought and has a clearer path to being available Sunday against the Buccaneers. The second-year tight end has two chances this week to get back to full, at which point the team may provide some clarity into his upcoming availability.

Freiermuth (concussion) didn't practice Wednesday.

Freiermuth remains in the NFL's concussion protocol, while Zach Gentry missed Wednesday's practice with a knee injury. In that context, Connor Heyward is currently the Steelers' top healthy option at tight end as Sunday's game against the Buccaneers approaches.

Freiermuth won't return to Sunday's game against the Bills after sustaining a concussion, Burt Lauten of Steelers.com reports.

Prior to leaving the contest, Freiermuth caught both of his targets for 12 yards. In his absence, Zach Gentry and Connor Heyward are next up for the Steelers' TE snaps. Freiermuth will now look to progress through the NFL's concussion protocol ahead of next weekend's game against the Buccaneers.

Freiermuth secured seven of nine targets for 85 yards during the Steelers' 24-21 loss to the Jets on Sunday.

Freiermuth led the Steelers in targets and receptions during Sunday's matchup, and he remained productive in spite of the team's quarterback change at halftime. The 2021 second-rounder has been somewhat inconsistent over the first few weeks of the year, but he's now had at least seven targets in three of the first four games. Regardless of whether Mitch Trubisky or Kenny Pickett starts under center for the Steelers going forward, Freiermuth will likely continue to see plenty of looks in the passing game.

Freiermuth brought in two of four targets for 41 yards in the Steelers' 29-17 loss to the Browns on Thursday night.

The talented tight end actually finished second in receiving yards for the Steelers on the night, but Freiermuth had been shut out in the stat sheet until Pittsburgh's penultimate drive. Freiermuth did contribute a 26-yard grab, however, establishing a new career high with his third reception of over 20 yards on the season. The Penn State product's target total was a season low, but he'll have a good chance to bounce back while facing an inconsistent Jets defense in a Week 4 home matchup a week from Sunday.

Freiermuth hauled in four of seven targets for 22 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 17-14 loss to the Patriots.

Freiermuth was much less efficient against the Patriots after catching five passes for 75 yards during last week's season-opening win over Cincinnati, but he was the only Pittsburgh pass catcher to reach the end zone during Sunday's low-scoring loss in Week 2. The 23-year-old had a late-season surge as a rookie in 2021, and he's gotten off to a hot start to begin the 2022 campaign even though the Steelers' offense has failed to top 200 yards in either of their first two games.

Freiermuth caught five passes for 75 yards on 10 targets against Cincinnati on Sunday.

While the box score might not look like it at a glance, it was a borderline excellent performance by Freiermuth given the awful quarterback play he was subjected to. Freiermuth knows how to read defensive leverage and find weak spots even a bad quarterback can hit, then he plays rugged through contact to make the most of the target. It's hard to imagine him becoming a top-shelf fantasy option as long as the quarterback play is of this low quality, but Freiermuth's own abilities are increasingly difficult to question.

Freiermuth hauled in three passes (four targets) for 45 yards in Sunday's preseason win over the Lions.

Freiermuth has racked up 80 receiving yards on just five receptions through two abbreviated preseason tilts. These stats don't count yet, but those who were hoping for the second-year tight end to build off his solid rookie campaign (497 yards and seven touchdowns) have to be pleased with his camp so far. Freiermuth will be the primary tight end for whoever head coach Mike Tomlin decides to name starting quarterback prior to the season opener against the Bengals on Sept. 11.

Freiermuth caught both of his targets for 35 yards in Saturday's preseason win over the Jaguars.

Freiermuth saw his first action of the preseason and played the entire first half with both Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett under center. He only caught passes from Pickett, highlighted by a 24-yard gain just before halftime that set up a touchdown. Freiermuth will look to build off a solid rookie season, though he'll be catching passes from a new quarterback while also facing increased competition for targets due to the addition of George Pickens.

Freiermuth (hamstring) returned to practice Monday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Out for over a week with hamstring tightness, Freiermuth may be eased back into practice and won't necessarily pay in Saturday's preseason opener against Seattle. He might not have played anyway, with his status as the starting tight end locked up after a rookie campaign with 60 receptions and seven TDs -- rare territory for a first-year TE. The one thing lacking was any impact downfield, with Freiermuth averaging a mere 8.3 yards per catch at an average target depth of 5.8. He did break eight tackles, tied for fourth most among tight ends, so he isn't necessarily destined to be a catch-and-fall guy. It remains to been if QB Mitchell Trubisky (or rookie Kenny Pickett, eventually) can help Freiermuth produce more big plays in Year 2.

Freiermuth (hamstring) won't practice Tuesday, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

The same applies to top back Najee Harris (foot) and wideout Chase Claypool (shoulder), with Lolley indicating that none of the injuries to Pittsburgh's key skill players are considered serious. Next up for tight end reps in Freiermuth's absence are Zach Gentry, Kevin Rader and Connor Heyward.

Coach Mike Tomlin revealed Friday that Freiermuth is dealing with a hamstring injury, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Freiermuth was forced out of Thursday's practice early, with what was described as "some lower-body tightness." Now we know that the tight end -- who didn't practice Friday -- is managing a hamstring concern. Next up for practice reps in Freiermuth's absence are Zach Gentry, Kevin Rader and Connor Heyward.

Freiermuth (lower body) exited Thursday's practice early, Alan Saunders of Steelersnow.com reports.

The report relays that coach Mike Tomlin indicated that the Steelers' top tight end "experienced some lower-body tightness" and will be evaluated further. "We'll exercise that necessary precaution, get him evaluated and not let a small thing become a big thing," Tomlin added. Until Freiermuth is able to return to practice, Zach Gentry, Kevin Rader and Connor Heyward are next up for the team's TE reps.

Freiermuth said he expects to reach 800 or 900 yards this year, noting that his rookie-year average of 8.3 yards per catch was "atrocious", Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

Freiermuth had a solid debut campaign in 2021 even with the poor per-catch average, scoring seven TDs while seeing 20 of his 79 targets in the red zone. All those looks near goal line tend to depress yardage averages like YPC and YPT, though the trade off is mostly a good one for fantasy. The bigger factor in Freirmuth's lack of yardage (497 from 60 catches) was a 5.5 aDOT, placing him 19th out of 25 TEs with 50-plus targets. That number could rise as Freiermuth improves his route-running and YAC skills and takes some snaps with QBs other than Ben Roethlisberger (though neither Mitchell Trubisky nor Kenny Pickett figures to be an upgrade in terms of short-pass accuracy). Realistically, Freiermuth needs triple-digit targets to reach the yardage range he's talking about -- neither likely nor impossible. He'll get plenty of snaps if he stays healthy, as the Steelers don't have much behind him at tight end in terms of either experience or pass-catching potential now that Eric Ebron is gone.

Freiermuth brought in six of nine targets for 53 yards in Sunday's 16-13 OT win over the Ravens.

Freiermuth compiled 15 targets across the final two games of the regular season, but he recorded just 75 yards during that time and failed to reach the end zone. He was on the field for 66 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in Week 18 and led the team in receiving yards. The rookie established himself as Pittsburgh's top tight end during his first professional season, and he caught 60 of 79 targets for 497 yards and seven touchdowns across 16 appearances. Fellow tight end Eric Ebron (knee) is slated to become a free agent during the offseason, so Freiermuth will likely enter the 2022 campaign as the team's No. 1 tight end.

Freiermuth caught five of six targets for 22 yards in Monday night's 26-14 win over the Browns.

Freiermuth returned after missing Week 17 while in concussion protocol and was a consistent outlet for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. However, his underneath presence didn't yield much yardage on a night Roethlisberger averaged a paltry 2.7 yards per attempt. With five grabs, though, Freiermuth trailed only teammate Diontae Johnson in the category, and he'll strive to add to his total in Week 18 versus the Ravens.

Freiermuth (concussion) doesn't have an injury designation for Monday's game against the Browns, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Freiermuth missed Week 16 due to the concussion but was able to clear the concussion protocol and practice with no limitations this week. The 23-year-old has caught 49 of 64 targets for 422 yards and seven touchdowns in 14 games during his rookie campaign.

Freiermuth (concussion) was a full participant in Fridayday's practice session, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Freiermuth missed last week's loss to Kansas City due to a concussion but hasn't had any limitations at practice ahead of Week 17. Assuming the rookie is a full participant once again Saturday, it wouldn't be surprising to see him cleared to play against the Browns on Monday.

Freiermuth (concussion) was a full participant in Thursday's practice session, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Freiermuth sustained a concussion in Week 15 and was unavailable for last week's loss to Kansas City as a result. However, he made a significant step in his recovery by participating fully in practice Thursday, and it appears as though he'll have a good chance of clearing the concussion protocol ahead of Monday's game against the Browns.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Freiermuth (concussion) has a chance to play Monday against the Browns, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth entered the protocol for head injuries during a Week 15 win against the Titans and was unable to practice in any capacity last week before he was ruled out for this past Sunday's game at Kansas City. Tomlin's comments indicate Freiermuth may be able to step on the field as early as Thursday, when the Steelers officially begin Week 17 prep. By doing so, Freiermuth would exhibit his first bit of progress since he was diagnosed with a concussion, but he still will be subject to an evaluation with an independent neurologist in order to be cleared for game action.

The Steelers have ruled Freiermuth (concussion) out for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

The rookie tight end will sit out for the first time in his career after he failed to make any notable progress since suffering the head injury in last week's win over the Titans. He failed to practice in any capacity Wednesday through Friday, suggesting Freiermuth is still in the early stages of the NFL's five-step concussion protocol. Zach Gentry should start and pick up most of the snaps at tight end Sunday, but he's not likely to be as involved in the passing game as Freiermuth typically is.

Freiermuth (concussion) didn't participate in Thursday's practice session, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth remains in the league's concussion protocol after exiting Sunday's win over the Titans, and he was unable to practice for a second straight day. If he's unavailable for Sunday's Week 16 matchup against Kansas City, Zach Gentry and Kevin Rader would be in line for additional work.

Freiermuth (concussion) didn't participate in Wednesday's practice session, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Freiermuth was unable to return to Sunday's win over the Titans after he took a hard hit in the third quarter, and he was placed in the league's concussion protocol after the game. If he hopes to play Sunday against Kansas City, he'll presumably need to return to practice in some capacity Thursday or Friday. If the 23-year-old is unavailable in Week 16, Zach Gentry should serve as the Steelers' top tight end.

Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Freiermuth was placed in the NFL's five-step concussion protocol after exiting Sunday's 19-13 win over the Titans with a head injury, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Freiermuth contributed four receptions for 37 yards on four targets before departing. With the rookie tight end now in the concussion protocol to begin Week 16, he'll likely be listed as a limited or non-participant when Pittsburgh resumes practicing Wednesday. In order to make himself eligible to play this weekend in Kansas City, Freiermuth will need to resume taking contact in addition to receiving clearance from an independent neurologist.

Freiermuth (concussion) won't return to Sunday's game against the Titans.

Prior to his exit from the contest, Freiermuth caught all four of his targets for 37 yards. In his absence, Zach Gentry is next in line for the Steelers' tight end snaps.

Freiermuth exited Sunday's game against the Titans to be evaluated for a concussion, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Freiermuth totaled four catches for 37 yards before leaving the contest during the third quarter. Zach Gentry will work as Pittsburgh's No. 1 tight end while Freiermuth is sidelined.

Freiermuth brought in two of three targets for 32 yards and a touchdown in the Steelers' 36-28 loss to the Vikings on Thursday night.

The rookie tight end played a key role in the Steelers' second-half comeback, but his inability to come up with a would-be touchdown grab as time expired also ensured that rally would fall short. Freiermuth got into the end zone from 15 yards out with 4:14 remaining help bring Pittsburgh within eight points; however, he was subsequently stripped of the ball by Harrison Smith on a perfect throw from Ben Roethlisberger as time expired that would have brought the Steelers within a two-point conversion of sending the game into overtime had he hung on to it. The mixed bag of a night still yielded a decent fantasy performance thanks to the score, Freiermuth's seventh in what has been an impressive rookie campaign. The Penn State product heads into a Week 15 clash with the Titans a week from Sunday having scored six of those touchdowns across his last seven contests.

Freiermuth secured three of four targets for 26 yards in Sunday's 20-19 win over the Ravens.

Freiermuth sustained a concussion in last week's loss to Cincinnati, but he was a full participant in each of the Steelers' three practice sessions this week. He didn't appear to be on a snap count against the Ravens, as the rookie was on the field for 73 percent of the team's offensive snaps. Freiermuth has been targeted at least four times in each of the last seven games, and he's brought in 32 of 44 targets for 253 yards and five touchdowns during that time.

Freiermuth (concussion) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

The tight end, who suffered a concussion during Week 12 action, practiced fully this past week and has been cleared to play versus Baltimore. With Eric Ebron (knee) on injured reserve, Freiermuth is profiles as the Steelers' clear-cut top pass-catching option at his position, a context that puts him on track to log steady enough snaps and targets to merit weekly fantasy consideration.

Freiermuth (concussion) practiced fully Thursday.

Back-to-back full sessions have Freiermuth trending toward suiting up Sunday against the Ravens. Friday's final injury report will reveal whether he has fully cleared concussion protocol and if so, the Steelers' top tight end will head into the weekend minus a Week 13 injury designation.

Freiermuth (concussion) was listed as a full practice participant Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

It remains to be seen if Freiermuth has cleared through all the stages of the NFL's concussion protocol, but his full participation in Wednesday's practice suggests that he's on track to play Sunday against the Ravens, barring any setbacks. With Eric Ebron (knee) on injured reserve, Freiermuth is the Steelers' clear-cut top pass-catching tight end when healthy, with Zach Gentry and Kevin Rader in reserve.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Freiermuth officially is in the concussion protocol, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Freiermuth was examined for a head injury in the aftermath of Sunday's 41-10 loss at Cincinnati after hauling in all four targets for 40 yards and one touchdown. He'll thus be subject to league protocols in order to be available for game action. Getting on the practice field sooner than later would be an indication that Freiermuth is making progress, so his listing on injury reports Wednesday through Friday will be closely monitored. With Eric Ebron (knee) on injured reserve, Zach Gentry and Kevin Rader currently are the healthiest tight ends on the Steelers' active roster.

Freiermuth (concussion) caught all four targets for 40 yards and a touchdown Sunday, but had to be evaluated for a concussion after a 41-10 loss to the Bengals, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Eric Ebron (knee) was placed on injured reserve this week, so Freiermuth resumed his role as the Steelers' unchallenged starting tight end. While the 22-year-old posted a strong fantasy line, he was forced to exit the game late after a hit to the head and will likely have to go through the league's concussion protocol this week. If Freiermuth is unable to go, Zach Gentry will be asked to start against the Ravens next Sunday.

Freiermuth had four receptions (seven targets) for 11 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-37 loss to the Chargers.

Freiermuth saved what would have been a dreadful fantasy performance with a five-yard touchdown reception in the final minutes of a wild Sunday Night Football matchup. Fellow tight end Eric Ebron also hit pay dirt, but he finished with four fewer targets than Freiermuth. The rookie tight end doesn't have a ton of upside -- especially with Ebron back in the mix -- but Freiermuth does have utility as a red-zone target with four touchdowns over the last four weeks. Up next is a matchup against the Bengals next Sunday.

Freiermuth hauled in five of nine targets for 31 yards in Sunday's 16-16 tie against the Lions.

Freiermuth had scored three touchdowns across the last two games, but he failed to reach the end zone in Sunday's matchup. The rookie also committed a fumble late in overtime as the Steelers approached field-goal range. In spite of his late blunder, Freiermuth's nine targets represented his highest total of the season, even though fellow tight end Eric Ebron was active.

Freiermuth caught five of six targets for 43 yards and two touchdowns in Monday night's 29-27 win over the Bears.

Freiermuth hauled in both of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's touchdown passes, continuing his strong recent stretch. The rookie's first came after Roethlisberger extended the play and found him in the end zone from four yards, then Freiermuth fought through a defensive pass-interference call to secure a contested, 10-yard score in the third quarter. Since wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster (shoulder) went down in Week 5, Freiermuth has enjoyed a larger role within Pittsburgh's offense, totaling 16 catches and three touchdowns over his last three outings. That production gives Freiermuth significant momentum heading into Week 10's matchup versus the Lions.

Freiermuth caught four of seven targets for 44 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 15-10 win over Cleveland.

The rookie tight end ranked second on the team in targets behind top wideout Diontae Johnson, and it's the second straight week he's been targeted seven times. Freiermuth had only 11 receptions for 100 yards and one score across the first five weeks of the season, but he's been more involved the past two games with 11 catches for 102 yards and a touchdown.

Freiermuth is expected to have an elevated workload in Sunday's game at Cleveland with Eric Ebron (hamstring) sidelined, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports.

Ebron injured his hamstring at Thursday's practice and didn't get on the field Friday, paving the way for Freiermuth to make his fourth start of the season. Freiermuth is coming off a season-best performance Week 6 against the Seahawks -- seven catches (on seven targets) for 58 yards on 60 percent snap share -- and now the rookie second-round pick seems poised for a career-best share of the offensive plays.

Freiermuth hauled in all seven of his targets for 58 yards in Sunday's 23-20 win over Seattle.

Freiermuth had been limited to just three receptions for 18 yards across the last two weeks, but he set the highest marks of his career in receptions and yards during Sunday's primetime matchup. He outpaced Eric Ebron in offensive snaps for the fifth time in the first six weeks of the season and has hauled in 18 of 20 targets for 158 yards and a touchdown this year.

Freiermuth secured his lone target for 11 yards in Sunday's 27-17 loss to the Packers.

Freiermuth was targeted nine times across the last two games and caught his first NFL touchdown in Week 3, but he was less involved against the Packers on Sunday. He logged a career-low 11 yards in the loss but was still slightly more productive than fellow tight end Eric Ebron, who secured both of his targets for eight yards. The rookie will attempt to get back on track in a tough matchup at home against the Broncos in Week 5.

Freiermuth hauled in three of five targets for 22 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-10 loss to the Bengals.

Freiermuth had been on the field for at least 50 percent of the team's offensive snaps in each of the first two weeks of the season, but he played just 36 percent of the offensive snaps in Week 3. However, he saw a season-high five targets and brought in his first career touchdown in the loss. Across his first three NFL games, the second-rounder has brought in eight of 10 targets for 82 yards and a touchdown.

Freiermuth brought in all four of his targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 26-17 loss to the Raiders.

Freiermuth was targeted just once in his NFL debut against the Bills last week, but he was more involved in the passing game during Sunday's loss. Eric Ebron saw two targets in Week 2, and both tight ends have seen work early in the 2021 campaign.

Freiermuth hauled in his lone target for 24 yards in Sunday's 23-16 win over the Bills.

Although Freiermuth was targeted just once in his NFL debut, he made the most of his opportunity by racking up 24 yards in his first career catch. The 2021 second-rounder started alongside veteran tight end Eric Ebron in Sunday's win, and it appears as though both of them will have a role in the Steelers' offense to begin the year.

Freiermuth secured two of three targets for 19 yards and two touchdowns in the Steelers' 26-20 preseason win over the Lions on Saturday night.

The rookie tight end flashed his height, leaping ability and sure hands on his two grabs, which came from 11 and eight yards out. Freiermuth impressively went up high near the back line of the end zone to snare the first scoring throw from Ben Roethlisberger and he made an impressive catch in tight coverage on the second touchdown. The red-zone usage was certainly encouraging from a fantasy perspective, and although veteran Eric Ebron will certainly command his share of targets near the end zone in the coming season, Freiermuth's 6-foot-5 frame should garner him a fair amount of opportunities as well.

Freiermuth (shoulder) caught his only target for six yards in Thursday's 24-16 preseason win over Philadelphia.

Freiermuth made his Steelers debut after sitting out the Hall of Fame Game against the Cowboys. The rookie second-round pick was called for a holding penalty on Pittsburgh's opening drive but managed to catch a pass in the second quarter. With established veteran Eric Ebron topping the tight end depth chart in Pittsburgh, Freiermuth will likely be brought along slowly, though he'll try to outplay Ebron when the Lions come to town for more preseason action next week.

Freiermuth (shoulder) participated in Tuesday's practice, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Freiermuth suffered a shoulder injury last week and was unable to appear in the Hall of Fame Game against Dallas. However, the 22-year-old's return to practice signals that he could make his NFL debut in Thursday's exhibition game against the Eagles. Freiermuth had performed well early in camp before he suffered his shoulder injury, and he's expected to compete for a role in Pittsburgh's offense ahead of his rookie season.

Freiermuth (shoulder) doesn't appear as if he'll play in Thursday's Hall of Fame Game against the Cowboys, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

The Steelers are taking a prudent approach with the rookie second-rounder after he injured his left shoulder at Tuesday's practice. Freiermuth's pro debut thus will have to wait until preseason Week 1 next Thursday in Philadelphia, at the earliest.

Freiermuth had ice taped to his left shoulder following an early exit from Tuesday's practice, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

The timing of the injury, even if it's minor, likely will prevent Freiermuth from making his NFL debut in the Hall of Fame Game against Dallas on Thursday. The rookie second-round pick reportedly has looked good through the first week of training camp, and he'll have three additional chances to suit up in exhibitions before the games begin to count. While unlikely to make a run at the Week 1 starting job, Freiermuth could poach some snaps and targets from fellow tight end Eric Ebron.