Rookie tight ends don’t typically produce in fantasy football, or at least that’s the prevailing wisdom. This year, a superstar is emerging at the position by the name of Kyle Pitts, casting a shadow on another rookie tight end that’s making his own mark — Pittsburgh Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth. If you’re struggling at the position or looking for a potential bye-week filler, Freiermuth is worth a look on your waivers.
Pat Freiermuth has had two straight solid games
After averaging only 2.2 receptions and 20 yards per game through the first five weeks, Freiermuth has stepped up as of late. He’s coming off two games — split by a Week 7 bye — in which he caught 11 of 14 passes for 102 yards and a highlight-reel touchdown catch.
Last week, Freiermuth was second on the Steelers in targets, behind only Diontae Johnson. Over those two games, which I admit is a small sample size, Freiermuth has averaged 10.9 half-PPR points, which is good for sixth-best in that window. No, I’m not saying Freiermuth is instantly a TE1. But he just might be making his own ascension into those ranks.
The tight end position is a wasteland
There isn’t an easier position in fantasy football in which to crack the top 10 than tight end. We know who’s at the top — Travis Kelce, Mark Andrews, and T.J. Hockenson are the big three. Yet, the bottom of the TE1 group is often a moving target.
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Kelce is at the top of the mountain with 102.5 half-PPR points through the first eight weeks of the season. The TE10, currently, is Darren Waller with 66.3 points. TE5 (Dalton Schultz) and Waller are separated by only 5.2 points … total. Essentially, there are top-tier tight ends and then a whole bunch of other guys.
Fantasy outlook for Pat Freiermuth
Freiermuth is carving out a nice role in Pittsburgh’s offense and is firmly on the radar as a weekly TE starter. This week, the Steelers have a matchup with the Chicago Bears, who are allowing the fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends. Nevertheless, the fantasy playoff schedule for Freiermuth is a good one.
If you’re dealing with injuries at the position and are looking for someone to anchor your TE spot as the season begins to wind down, Freiermuth has the upside to be a viable starter. If he can continue his hot streak against a tough Bears unit, his stock will only rise.
