Pat Freiermuth, the tight end for the Pittsburgh Steelers, faced mixed results during Week 15 against the Baltimore Ravens. With star wide receiver George Pickens sidelined due to a hamstring injury, expectations were high for Freiermuth to step up. Unfortunately for fantasy football managers, he managed only three receptions for 16 yards on three targets, failing to leverage the additional opportunity.
Throughout the game, quarterback Russell Wilson distributed the ball effectively among his skill players. This was particularly disappointing for those hoping Freiermuth would convert the increased role due to Pickens’ absence. While he seemed poised for success, he didn't get the volume needed to thrive. Instead, other tight ends benefited from Wilson’s passing strategy, leaving Freiermuth's performance lacking.
Head coach Mike Tomlin discussed the strategy after the game, emphasizing the need for balance when spreading targets. He stated, "He’s a capable guy, but we spread the ball around." These comments underline the sharing of the offensive workload among players, which has greatly impacted Freiermuth’s fantasy viability. Despite having scored touchdowns in three consecutive games prior to the Ravens matchup, this performance left Freiermuth's fantasy managers wanting more, reducing him to the TE2 tier moving forward.
Looking at Freiermuth's situation, he will need to find ways to return to the top of the fantasy rankings. Fantasy managers are scrambling to determine if he remains a viable starter in Week 16, especially with the Steelers set to face off against the Kansas City Chiefs. Given the high-scoring nature of the Chiefs and how the Steelers’ defense has performed, Freiermuth could see additional targeting as the offense looks for ways to maintain pace. Fantasy managers may still be hopeful for Freiermuth's resurgence, fueled by the possibility of increased snap counts.
Freiermuth's performance clearly raised concerns about his ability to be reliable under circumstances where he is expected to lead the offense. While he remains capable, the lack of volume, as highlighted by recent statistics, could significantly affect his output moving forward. Fantasy managers need to balance the potential he carries with the evident distribution of the targets seen lately.
The Steelers' matchup against Kansas City offers another opportunity for Freiermuth to shift back to form. The Chiefs have shown vulnerability against tight ends, making this matchup enticing for those considering Freiermuth as part of their fantasy strategy. Adjusting their fantasy rosters will be key this week, as managers could look to other tight ends on waivers if Freiermuth remains inconsistent.
With Tomlin's statement about needing to improve tackling and fundamentals, fantasy players also have to understand the larger picture here—Freiermuth needs not only volume but also quality targets to convert plays. How well the offense adapts and includes Freiermuth will be something to watch closely. The Steelers may need to get him involved more, particularly as they prepare against potent offenses.
To sum up, Week 16 will be pivotal for Freiermuth. Depending on Wilson’s ability to engage the tight end more and how the offensive line holds up against the Chiefs, Freiermuth has the potential to bounce back. Yet, he could just easily find himself once again on the sidelines of significant fantasy discussions. With competition on the waiver wire heating up, it may lead to tough decisions for those relying on his productivity down the stretch.
