The curious case of Pat Freiermuth has been a recurring storyline within the Steelers’ news-sphere over the past two weeks. After playing just 15 snaps without seeing a target against the Vikings, many have wondered what’s behind his reduced role. Even those who cover the team are at a loss to explain it, and, equally importantly, how it changes.
In their last game, the Steelers heavily employed run-centric looks with TE Darnell Washington and OL Spencer Anderson as a tackle-eligible tight end. That left both Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith looking for snaps, of which few remained.