With Donald Parham Jr. out for the entire 2025 season due to a torn Achilles, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a strategic shift in their tight end usage. Parham was expected to provide depth and red-zone prowess as the No. 3 tight end.
Pat Freiermuth now solidifies his role as the primary pass-catching tight end. He is projected for 55–70 receptions, 550–700 yards, and 3–6 touchdowns in 2025, making him a solid TE2 and potential low-end TE1 in fantasy leagues.
Darnell Washington, primarily a blocking specialist, may see a slight increase in targets but remains a low fantasy priority with projections under 100 yards and 0–1 touchdowns.
The Steelers are reportedly interested in acquiring Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins, which could impact Freiermuth's target share and provide Smith with potential red-zone opportunities.
In dynasty formats, Freiermuth is a valuable asset due to his age and role, while Washington remains a stash option in TE-premium leagues.
