One of the new trends for NFL offenses is to utilize multiple tight ends. As teams try to create mismatches against defenders in coverage, versatile tight ends who take advantage of their size but are also capable blockers are especially valuable. Look no further than the 2026 NFL Draft, where a record 21 tight ends were selected, as proof positive of the arms race as teams rush to take advantage of the newest tendency.
Where does the Pittsburgh Steelers tight ends room rank league-wide? After recently signing Darnell Washington to an extension, Pittsburgh now has two of the top twelve highest-paid tight ends in the league, joining Pat Freiermuth in that class. According to rankings from Yahoo Sports, they are getting their money’s worth, as they are ranked the number five tight end room in the NFL.
“The Pittsburgh Steelers had the second-highest 13 personnel rate in the NFL in 2025, and looking at their tight end room, it makes a lot of sense as to why,” Jacob Infante wrote for Yahoo. “Jonnu Smith is gone, but their top two tight ends, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, both return heading into 2026. Both ranked in the top 20 in PFN TE Impact Scoring, making the Steelers one of two teams with two tight ends to rank in the top 20 in the league last year.”
Freiermuth and Washington will be featured at the position, but the number three tight end spot is very much up for grabs. Veteran Robert Tonyan was added to the fold recently and has a history with Aaron Rodgers. Though he’s been limited to just one catch over the last two seasons, Tonyan was productive during a five-year stint in Green Bay earlier in his career.
Other competition for the third tight end spot will come from undrafted rookie Lake McRee and former New England Patriots draft pick Jaheim Bell.
Last season was quiet statistically for Freiermuth as Pittsburgh stubbornly stuck with Jonnu Smith despite limited success. 2026 has the potential to be a breakout season for Freiermuth, depending on coaching and utilization, as we all know the talent is there. New offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio has a long history as a tight ends coach in the league and, thus far, has said all the right things about wanting to utilize Freiermuth.
Last season was Washington’s breakout year as a receiver. Already known as one of the league’s best blocking tight ends, Washington demonstrated in 2025 that his massive frame can be a weapon in the passing game, posting career highs in receptions and yards. The extension signed this offseason is just another indicator of the faith Pittsburgh has in Washington as a core part of their offense going forward.
Under a new, offense-minded head coach in Mike McCarthy and an offensive coordinator with a history of working with tight ends, there’s a chance that Pittsburgh’s unit could take a massive step forward this season. That’s good news for a unit that’s already ranked as a top-five in the league.
