The Pittsburgh Steelers are sitting at 3-2 after a solid win over the Indianapolis Colts last Sunday at Acrisure Stadium, and you know who’s stepping up big time? Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. Freiermuth isn’t holding back, either, straight up declaring, “me and Darnell are the best tight end duo in the NFL.” That’s a bold claim, especially with all the talent flying around the league, but after Sunday’s performance, you gotta listen.
Freiermuth’s Big Day Backs Up the Talk
Freiermuth absolutely showed out against the Colts, snagging five catches for 44 yards and a pair of touchdowns. That kind of production is huge, especially when the offense needed it most. He’s now got four touchdown receptions this season, putting him right there with guys like George Kittle, Isaiah Likely, and Mike Gesicki for the top spot among tight ends. When asked about the tight end room stepping up amidst the receiver injuries, Freiermuth’s confidence was through the roof. He said, “Selfishly, I think you know, me and Darnell (Washington) are the best tight end duo in the NFL. Anytime we can go out there and utilize our skill sets to the best of our abilities, I think we have a pretty good chance to win the game on offense.” That’s the kind of fire you love to see, especially when a guy is delivering on the field.
Injuries Force a Shift, Washington Proves His Worth
It’s not just Freiermuth balling out, though. The Steelers’ receiver room has been absolutely hammered with injuries. They came into the Colts game without Michael Pittman Jr., who hit short-term injured reserve with a foot issue. Then, Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek both left in the first half and didn’t return. Wilson is reportedly out for at least a few more games, and both are missing Week 6 against Tampa Bay. This is where Darnell Washington becomes even more crucial. The guy just inked a massive $42 million contract extension this summer, and he’s proving why he’s worth every penny. His impact blocking is next level, and he’s a massive red zone mismatch. With the receiver corps so thin, head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear they’re leaning into their tight ends and running backs. That’s a huge vote of confidence for this duo, and it means we’re going to see them heavily involved moving forward. Good things happen when Pittsburgh puts the ball in their tight ends’ hands this season, so why not ride that wave?
What’s Next for the Steelers’ “Best Duo”?
The Steelers are looking ahead to Week 6, where they’ll face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This is a critical chance for Freiermuth and Washington to prove that their claim isn’t just talk. Can they continue to be the backbone of this offense, even with the receiver struggles? All eyes will be on them. If they keep delivering like this, that “best duo” claim might just become undeniable.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Behind the Steel Curtain.
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