The Pittsburgh Steelers just got a gut punch to their passing game, with tight end Pat Freiermuth added to the injury report and questionable for Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay due to a calf injury. This is a brutal hit when you look at what Freiermuth has been doing this season.
Freiermuth’s Big Start Threatened By Calf Issues
Freiermuth has been a legit weapon for the Steelers offense, racking up four touchdown receptions already this season. Remember Week 5 against the Colts? He snagged two scores in that game alone. The guy is on pace for an insane 14 touchdown receptions this year, which would be massive for any tight end in the league. If he can’t go on Sunday, Pittsburgh’s definitely going to feel it. Burt Lauten, a team spokesman, confirmed the injury on X, and it’s sending shivers down the spine of their fan base, no doubt. The next man up would likely be Robert Tonyan, who’d see an increased role alongside Darnell Washington if Freiermuth is sidelined. That’s a lot of production to try and replace, especially in a critical early season matchup.
Steelers’ Pass Catching Depth Taking Hit After Hit
The Freiermuth injury isn’t happening in a vacuum for Pittsburgh either. The receiving corps is already thin, with Michael Pittman, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skrowonek already out. Losing another key pass-catcher like Freiermuth is truly the last thing that offense needs right now. They’re trying to find their rhythm, and suddenly they’re missing major pieces. On a slightly brighter note for the Steelers, wide receiver DK Metcalf has been taken off the injury report after battling an illness and is expected to play Sunday. So at least they get one of their guys back on the field. Still, the situation with Freiermuth and the other injured receivers leaves them scrambling to put together a complete offensive game plan for Tampa Bay.
The Steelers are set to face Tampa Bay this Sunday, and with so many pass-catching options banged up, every play is going to feel like it has even higher stakes. Can they overcome these injuries and pull off a win, or will their depleted offense struggle to find the end zone?
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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