The tight end position for the Pittsburgh Steelers is about to get a whole lot more interesting, and I'm here for it!
With Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington firmly established at the top of the depth chart, the real battle is brewing behind them. The Steelers have injected some fresh talent and experience into this position group, creating a fascinating competition that will undoubtedly shape up during training camp.
Let's meet the contenders and break down their chances.
Rookies: Riley Nowakowski and Lake McRee
Nowakowski, a fifth-round pick, is an intriguing prospect. Despite his fullback label, he's been working with the tight ends under coach Robert Kugler. This move gives him a legitimate shot at the No. 3 spot on the depth chart. His development and the team's utilization of his fullback and tight end skills will be crucial in determining if he can 'steal' that spot.
McRee, on the other hand, brings draftable talent and impressive size (6'4, 250 lbs) to the table. While he's had injury concerns with two torn ACLs in college, he showed flashes of brilliance in 2025, averaging an impressive 15 yards per catch with four touchdowns. Keep an eye on McRee; he could be a real wildcard in this competition.
Veteran: Robert Tonyan
Tonyan is an experienced player with a unique connection to Aaron Rodgers and an understanding of Mike McCarthy's offensive system. He's a bit older and slower now, but he's carved out a niche as a blocking specialist. With his experience and knowledge, Tonyan could be a valuable addition to the Steelers' tight end room, especially with his ability to contribute on running plays.
In-Betweeners: Jaheim Bell and JJ Galbreath
Bell and Galbreath bring different skill sets to the table. Bell, who had a brief stint with the New England Patriots, is more of an H-Back and is known for his receiving abilities. He's been compared to Harold Fannin Jr., albeit in a poorer light. Galbreath, on the other hand, is athletic and a capable receiver, but he needs to improve his blocking and add some play strength.
The Impact of the Competition
Whoever emerges victorious from this tight end battle will likely have a limited role on the team. Backup snaps, special teams duties, and the occasional catch are what's on the menu. However, with his fullback versatility, Nowakowski could have a more significant impact if he can earn the coaching staff's trust.
This position group has gone from being a weakness to a competitive and intriguing part of the team. It's a testament to the Steelers' ability to identify and acquire talent, even in the later rounds of the draft and through free agency.
Deeper Analysis
The tight end position is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in modern NFL offenses. The ability to have a versatile tight end who can block and receive opens up a whole new dimension to the offense. The Steelers' decision to invest in this position group shows their commitment to building a well-rounded and dynamic offense.
Conclusion
The tight end battle in Pittsburgh is a fascinating subplot to the larger story of the Steelers' 2026 season. While it may not be the most glamorous position, the competition and the potential impact of the winners cannot be understated. It's an exciting development, and I, for one, am eager to see how this position group evolves and contributes to the team's success.
