Another week, another roster puzzle. For fantasy managers rostering Pat Freiermuth, the question is a big one. Coming off a bye week, can the Steelers tight end capitalize on a divisional showdown with the Cincinnati Bengals? Let's dive in.
The Case for 'Muth'
Pat Freiermuth
has been a touchdown-dependent but involved player for the Pittsburgh Steelers this season. Through eight games, he's found the end zone four times, ranking him sixth among qualified tight ends. While his yardage totals have been modest, averaging just under 30 yards per game, his role as a red-zone threat is what keeps him on the fantasy radar. He has seen 35 targets and caught 25 of them, proving to be a reliable, if not explosive, option for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. For fantasy purposes, Freiermuth is the definition of a streaming tight end with a decent floor due to his consistent targets, but his ceiling has felt limited. His fantasy value is tied directly to crossing the goal line, which he did in Week 8 against the Browns. Coming off a bye week, he should be well-rested for a critical AFC North game where every possession will count.
The Bengals Matchup
On paper, the matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals is an appealing one. Entering Week 9, the Bengals had allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends. More recent analysis suggests they are giving up the fourth-most schedule-adjusted fantasy points per game to the position. This isn't a new trend; in 2025, their defense gave up the most catches, yards, and touchdowns to tight ends. While they've yet to allow a tight end touchdown this season, they are content to concede receptions over the middle of the field. Freiermuth has also enjoyed success against Cincinnati in the past, posting 160 yards and two touchdowns in his last three meetings with them. For a player like Freiermuth, who relies on consistent targets and red-zone looks, a defense that is statistically vulnerable to his position is a significant green light for fantasy consideration.
The Rodgers Connection
A tight end's value is inextricably linked to his quarterback, and the performance of Aaron Rodgers is a key factor here. Rodgers, at age 42, has been solid for the Steelers, who sit at 6-2 and atop the division. While not the gunslinger of his Green Bay days, he's been efficient and has shown a willingness to spread the ball around. Reports from earlier in the season indicated Rodgers is feeling more mobile and healthier in 2026 after dealing with a back issue in 2025, which has allowed him to be more comfortable in the pocket. However, Freiermuth isn't the only tight end getting looks; he has been splitting targets with Darnell Washington, which caps his overall volume. Freiermuth holds a modest 13.1% target share on the season. The upcoming game is a massive test for the entire Steelers offense against a Bengals team that is also 6-2 and firing on all cylinders. If Pittsburgh needs to keep pace in a potential shootout, Freiermuth's reliable hands could become a go-to for Rodgers on crucial downs.
The Final Verdict
So, should you start him? The answer leans toward a confident yes, particularly if you're in a position where you're streaming tight ends. The matchup is one of the most favorable he'll see all season. The Bengals' defense has historically been generous to tight ends, and that trend has continued into 2026. While Freiermuth's yardage floor is low, his touchdown upside is significant, especially in a game that could feature plenty of red zone opportunities. He has finished as a top‑12 fantasy tight end in three of his eight games this year, showing he can produce start‑worthy weeks. Given that the Steelers are coming off a bye and facing a divisional rival in a game for first place, expect them to exploit every matchup advantage they can find. Freiermuth is a solid, high‑floor streaming option this week with a tangible path to a top‑10 finish at the position.
