The Pittsburgh Steelers had a complicated rotation at tight end last year. Pat Freiermuth, not too long after signing a contract extension, failed to consistently contribute for most of the season while never really getting a chance to do so. On the flip side, Darnell Washington really started to emerge and show some promise as a pass catcher. All the while, Jonnu Smith continued to take reps away from those two, a questionable decision at the very least.
Smith has since been released after an underwhelming lone season in Pittsburgh. And Connor Heyward, the Steelers’ fourth tight end from last year, has moved on to Las Vegas. The Steelers could still add to the position, but for now, only Freiermuth and Washington are expected to be consistent contributors in 2026.
Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly expects an even split in playing time between the two.
“They’re two different guys. I mean, they bring different things to the table, so much. Can we go 1A and 1B? I still think Freiermuth’s probably number one, just for the fact that we’re not quite sure how they’re going to use Darnell Washington. They used him extremely well last year. I would assume this coaching staff is smart enough to use him there,” Kaboly said Monday on 93.7 The Fan. “One’s obviously a better pass catcher, one’s obviously a better blocker. They’re gonna have the same amount of snaps. So, if it’s 1A and 1B, that’s how you want to label them, that’s a good problem to have.”
Washington is excellent as a blocker, so much so that some speculated last summer he should move to tackle. That’s how he’s gotten on the field for most of his young NFL career. But the most encouraging part of his 2025 season was his production in the Steelers’ passing game.
Washington only had 364 receiving yards in 16 games, not an eye-popping number. But in games against Cleveland in Week 6 and Cincinnati in Week 11, Washington looked dynamic with over 60 receiving yards in both. He’s proven himself as a blocker, but was better at getting open and making things happen after the catch last year. We’ll see how Mike McCarthy uses him in 2026, but Washington showed how he can impact a passing game.
Regardless, Pat Freiermuth has to be in line for a bigger role this year. Even though he caught 41 of the 54 passes thrown his way in 2025, those were the second-fewest targets of his career. He was efficient with 11.9 yards per reception, but it only amounted to 486 receiving yards. Freiermuth was good when he had his chances, but didn’t get as many as he probably should have.
Pittsburgh may still add to its tight end room, with the draft being a good chance to do so. But Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington’s usage will be interesting to watch with a new staff in place.
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