Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers Gets Honest About Pat Freiermuth's Mindset Amid Lack Of Targets

The Pittsburgh Steelers went all in to pursue quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the 2025 season. Many pundits were curious about what he could bring to Pittsburgh at this stage of his career, wondering if his experience and skill could translate into immediate success. After the Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 26-24, some of those questions were answered, at least in terms of the regular season. Rodgers led the team to an AFC North title and secured a home playoff game, proving that even in the later stages of his career, he could still make a major impact on a championship-contending team.

However, not everything went as some expected, particularly regarding tight end Pat Freiermuth. Many assumed Freiermuth would have a career year with a quarterback like Rodgers, but the numbers have not reflected that. In the must-win game against the Ravens, Freiermuth was targeted only five times, and it was not until the second half that he saw his first pass. 

Despite the limited opportunities, Freiermuth made them count, coming up big with three catches for 51 receiving yards and showing why he remains a key weapon in Pittsburgh’s offense.

After the win, Rodgers spoke to the Pittsburgh media and offered a revealing look into Freiermuth’s mindset throughout the season. Rodgers highlighted how the tight end has remained focused, professional, and ready to make plays whenever his number is called, even when the targets have not come as often as expected. 

His comments painted a picture of a player who thrives on preparation and patience, demonstrating why Freiermuth continues to be a trusted piece in the Steelers’ offensive scheme and a potential difference-maker in the playoffs.

"A lot of respect for Pat [Freiermuth], first and foremost, the way he has handled himself the entire season," Rodgers said. "Pat is a very dynamic player and with the emergence of Darnell [Washington] and the big personnel that we run, he hasn't had as many snaps as he is used to or would have wanted."

The Steelers have three solid pass-catching tight ends on the roster in Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith, and Freiermuth. Smith has not been the pass-catching tight end the Steelers hoped for when they traded for him. 

However, Washington has emerged in the 2025 season as one of Rodgers’ favorite targets. He was hurt in Week 17’s loss to the Cleveland Browns and is now out for the season. Rodgers has praised Freiermuth for being a true team player, even when things have not gone his way throughout the year.

"Not one time this entire year, and he is my locker mate so I can say this with 100% confidence and honesty," Rodgers said. "Not one time did I hear him complain... there's a lot to be said for that. I think that is a lost part of this league."

Steelers Need To Get Pat Freiermuth More Targets In Postseason

Now Freiermuth has a chance to become the Steelers’ most important offensive weapon in the playoffs. If the Steelers’ offense is going to click, getting DK Metcalf back from suspension is crucial. Even so, they will need to get Freiermuth more targets. He needs more than the five targets he has been getting, and the big plays he made in the Week 18 regular season finale proved that he can deliver when given the opportunity.

Freiermuth’s ability to step up in critical moments makes him a key factor for Pittsburgh’s postseason success. With Washington sidelined, the tight end group now depends on him to make plays and help keep defenses honest. If Rodgers and Freiermuth can build a strong connection in the playoffs, the Steelers’ offense could become much more dynamic and difficult to stop.

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