Mike McCarthy expected to help Pat Freiermuth redeem himself in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 4:25 PM
Last updated Jun 21, 2026
Pat Freiermuth of the Pittsburgh Steelers is looking to bounce back in the 2026 NFL season after a disappointing performance in 2025. He participated in only 51 percent of offensive snaps last year, logging 41 receptions, his lowest in a season with at least 16 games. The Steelers hired Mike McCarthy, known for effectively using tight ends, to boost Freiermuth's target share and overall performance. With a contract extension solidifying his role, Freiermuth aims to return to form, leveraging his past successes in target share and efficiency.
- •Freiermuth logged a career-low 41 catches in 2025.
- •He signed a four-year, $48.4 million contract extension.
- •McCarthy previously maximized tight end production in Dallas.
- •Freiermuth is expected to take on a larger role in 2026.
- •He ranked eighth in catch rate over expected among tight ends in 2025.
- 4:25 PMYahoo Sports — Mike McCarthy is exactly who Pat Freiermuth needed
"Mike McCarthy is exactly who Pat Freiermuth needed to help him bounce back
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