It may seem like the Pittsburgh Steelers were just putting the cap on their 2022 season but believe it or not Training Camp is right around the corner. As the Steelers prepare for their trip East to Latrobe, we’re getting ready too. We’ll be previewing the 90 players participating at St. Vincent College position by position. In this article we look at the tight ends.
Currently on the Roster
Pat Freiermuth – 3rd season
Zach Gentry – 5th season
Darnell Washington – Rookie
Connor Heyward – 2nd Season
Rodney Williams – 1st Season
Pat Freiermuth
The former Nittany Lion continues to ascend up the ranks of top tight ends in the NFL. While he still isn’t in the conversation with the Travis Kelce’s of the world, he’s become a reliable and at times, dynamic receiving threat. Concussion issues will always be a concern with him but he was able to play in 16 of 17 games last season.
2022 stats:
63 receptions
732 yards receiving
11.2 yards per catch
2 TDs
37 first downs
While Freiermuth’s TD total dropped from seven to two, his reception and yardage numbers both increased. Perhaps most important of all is that he has become an all-important ‘chain mover’ meaning nearly half of his receptions went for first downs. That type of production must continue in 2023.
Zach Gentry
No one is more surprised by the emergence of Gentry as a legitimate number two tight end than I am. I’ve followed his career since he came to Michigan as a quarterback. When he was drafted in the fifth round, I thought it was a reach and a poor decision by Kevin Colbert. While Gentry had size and length, he wasn’t very strong and lacked the type of blocking skills needed at the NFL level. To his credit, he’s made himself the unit’s best blocker and a viable option when needed in receiving.
2022 stats:
19 receptions
132 yards receiving
6.9 yards per reception
0 TD
I think most fans believe that Gentry’s days in Pittsburgh are numbered after the team drafted Darnell Washington but I’m not so sure. More on that below.
Darnell Washington
Often overshadowed by the talented Brock Bowers at tight end for Georgia, Washington made his living as blocker and occasional pass catcher. The Steelers made a huge effort this offseason to get more physical on the offensive line and Washington adds to that. He is a tremendous blocker who uses a wide base and piston-like feet to drive defenders down-field.
2022 stats (at Georgia):
28 receptions
454 yards receiving
16.2 yards per reception
2TDs
One of the reasons that Washington fell to the Steelers in the third round was that he’s had some knee issues. If he can remain healthy then he becomes and immediate player and Red Zone threat. Don’t let the minor numbers fool you, this is an athletic guy capable of big things.
Connor Heyward
Heyward went from “he was just drafted because he’s Cam’s brother” to “Hey! This guy can play!” He’s listed among the tight ends but make no mistake about it; he’s going to be a hybrid player. His vast college experience at fullback at Michigan State proves he can be an effective lead blocker while he also displayed nice hands receiving. Don’t be surprised to see him lining up all over the formation.
2022 stats:
12 receptions
151 yards receiving
1 TD
12.6 yards per reception
2 carries
27 yards
Like Freiermuth, Heyward has the ability to move the sticks. 50% of his catches went for first downs and the more options Matt Canada has available the better. I’m not expecting huge numbers from Heyward but don’t be surprised if he consistently big plays throughout the season.
Rodney Williams
Played in college at Tennessee-Martin. He probably looks more like an H-Back than a traditional tight end and he does have above average blocking skills. Unfortunately he’s lost in the numbers this year.
Roster Projections
This is going to be one of the more fascinating decisions the Steelers will face in 2023 but I feel very confident about what I see happening.
Freiermuth, Gentry, Washington, Heyward
Williams – Practice Squad
Because of health issues for both Freiermuth and Washington, I believe Gentry sticks. Remember too that he’s an excellent blocker and that goes a long way with the Steelers.
