Predictions and forecasts have been made, but no one truly knows what to expect from the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. Several coaching staff changes have made it nearly impossible.
One of the significant staff changes is coordinator Arthur Smith, who historically runs a tight-end friendly offensive. Pat Freiermuth will be the beneficiary if that’s how the season plays out.
Pro Football Focus stats suggest Freiermuth could open the season on a high note — if one player doesn’t rain on his parade. Strong safety Justin Simmons, who the Falcons added on Aug. 18, is one of the best at his position in reading quarterbacks and defending tight ends. Simmons is entering his ninth season, eight of which were with Russell Wilson‘s former Denver Broncos team.
An April tweet by former Steelers great Antonio Brown tied Simmons to the Black and Gold, but having DeShon Elliot on the roster made it a long shot.
Pat Freiermuth has a favorable matchup against the Falcons defense 👀
Freiermuth ranks 10th among TEs in PFF receiving grade, and he's facing an Atlanta defense that ranked 32nd in yards per route run allowed vs TEs last year pic.twitter.com/CfXN5UDlnO
— PFF PIT Steelers (@PFF_Steelers) September 2, 2024
