Pat Freiermuth, the Steelers’ tight end, is officially taking direct snaps under center for the team’s short-yardage package this season. This isn’t just a new wrinkle in the offense, it’s a deep dive into a past Freiermuth admitted was, well, a little rough.
The Wing-T Horror Show Freiermuth Tried To Forget
When head coach Mike McCarthy and the offensive staff pitched the idea of Freiermuth running a power play, with fellow tight end Darnell Washington pushing him across the line, he was on board. But there’s a catch: Freiermuth hasn’t taken a snap under center since his sophomore year in high school, back in a Wing-T offense. He actually kept a little secret from the coaches, admitting, “I didn’t tell them this, but I probably averaged a fumble or two a game in just the center to quarterback exchange.” Talk about an anxiety flashback! You gotta wonder how many guys would keep that kind of intel to themselves heading into a crucial new role.
Aaron Rodgers’ Unlikely Help and The Cadence Conundrum
So, how do you go from fumbling machines in high school to reliable short-yardage option in the NFL? Apparently, you hit up the GOAT himself. Freiermuth went straight to veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers for technical advice on hand placement and mechanics. Rodgers was “pretty good at telling” him, and Freiermuth’s found a hand placement he likes. But mastering the grip was only half the battle. His “biggest anxiety” heading into these plays? The cadence. Getting that perfect timing to avoid pre-snap penalties or messing with the offensive line is no joke. Luckily, starting guard Mason McCormick has been the judge, and he “hasn’t told me yet” that it sucks. Sounds like everyone’s “pretty happy” with how he’s calling it.
This whole thing gives Pittsburgh a serious physical option to convert those critical short-yardage downs. It’s a bold move, bringing out a past problem that Freiermuth worked hard to put behind him. Now, with Rodgers’s help and McCormick’s seal of approval, he’s embracing a role that could be huge for those make-or-break moments on the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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