It looks like the Steelers are in a great situation. Even though they haven’t played well this season, they have managed to compile a winning record. Despite his team’s 4-2 record, head coach Mike Tomlin must be pleased with his group of players because he knows they are capable of much more.
In Week 17, the Steelers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 24–17 on the road, putting on their greatest performance of the year. After taking the lead in the second half, they overcame a 17–10 deficit to win the game with 14 points in the last quarter.
Subpar offensive production
For the most portion of the season, quarterback Kenny Pickett has had trouble sparking the offence, but against the Rams, he performed far better than he had for the most of the first half. For 230 yards, he completed 17 of 25 throws without throwing an interception.
On paper, they have a really strong running assault, but Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris are still finding their footing. At this moment, wide receiver George Pickens is their most effective weapon. He outmuscles the opposition’s defensive backs with his stature, wingspan, and quickness. Pickens’ five receptions for 107 yards were a major factor in the victory over the Rams.
He has been even better during the season with 27 receptions for 500 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a long play of 71 yards.
With the exception of Pickens, the Steelers’ receivers aren’t producing much. The Steelers have always found success in the tight end position, where they have been especially deficient.
The tight end position needs to be considered if the Steelers hope to significantly improve their offensive before the trade deadline of October 31.
An important injury at the TE spot
The Steelers had hoped that Pat Freiermuth, a tight end, would provide some noteworthy results, but injuries have plagued him this season. He missed two games due to a hamstring injury, and just when it looked like he may recover, the ailment flared up once more.
Freiermuth has only made 8 catches for 53 yards this year, which is quite pedestrian. With two receptions in the end zone, he has demonstrated that he is a capable red zone weapon.
The Steelers are aware that Freiermuth is a potent weapon when healthy. Last year, he hauled in 63 passes for 732 yards. Remarkably, he has already equaled his two touchdowns from the previous season.
By mid-November, Freiermuth ought to be in good health; nevertheless, terms like “should be” and “probably” do not equate to productive and healthy. The Steelers must so keep an eye on the trade market.
unusual business associate?
It is unusual for the Steelers to consider the New England Patriots as a possible trading partner. Rather, throughout the years, they have been significant playoff rivals.
Even though the Patriots surprised the Buffalo Bills in Week 7, it doesn’t appear like Bill Belichick and his team will make the postseason. The Patriots do, however, boast a pair of healthy and effective tight ends.
Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki are both in the starting lineup for the Pats. Maybe Steelers general manager Omar Khan can wrangle one of those from the New England roster, though it might not come at a cheap price.
The Steelers may run into problems with Henry’s high $9.5 million price tag (his pay would be prorated). For the season, he has caught 20 receptions for 210 yards and two touchdowns, which is not very good considering how much he gets paid.
Khan’s time and effort might be worthwhile, though, as Henry has previously demonstrated his ability to make receptions that change the course of the game.
Gesicki may not be a game-changing player, but his price tag of $4.5 million is more affordable. Though it was his only touchdown reception of the season, he did catch the game-winning touchdown ball against the Bills in Week 7. With 17 receptions for 149 yards, he has demonstrated his lengthy reception of 18 yards
Bottom line
If Khan determines that neither of the Patriots’ tight ends is worth bringing in, it would make sense to bring in one of the other tight ends he may be able to locate.
The Steelers would be better for the club if they reached an agreement because they have no idea when Freiermuth would be fit and effective again.