Steelers Offensive Coordinator Excited About Tight End Group

Brian Angelichio praises Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington as versatile, talented tight ends.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:56pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Steelers tight end catching a pass, the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes in the style of Pablo Picasso.A cubist interpretation of a Steelers tight end making a crucial red zone catch, highlighting the position's versatility in the team's offense.Today in Pittsburgh

New Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio, who previously coached tight ends, expressed excitement about the team's tight end group, led by Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. Angelichio highlighted their ability to both run block and catch passes, as well as their versatility in the offense.

Why it matters

The Steelers' tight end position is a key part of their offensive attack, and Angelichio's enthusiasm suggests the team is confident in their ability to be productive and create mismatches for opposing defenses.

The details

Freiermuth and Washington both return to the Steelers in 2026 after solid 2025 seasons. Freiermuth had 486 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns, while the 6'7", 300-pound Washington emerged as an athletic pass-catching threat, recording 31 receptions for 364 yards and a score. Angelichio praised their ability to both run block and excel in the passing game, noting their versatility is an asset that can create problems for defenses.

  • Angelichio made these comments on April 17, 2026 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

The players

Brian Angelichio

The new offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously served as the team's tight ends coach.

Pat Freiermuth

The Steelers' starting tight end, who had 486 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns in 2025.

Darnell Washington

The Steelers' second-year tight end, a 6'7", 300-pound player who emerged as an athletic pass-catching threat in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“They're a great group. They can do both. I think, in this league, you have to have the ability to run block and, certainly, catch the ball. And I know certainly Pat's had a lot of success doing that here. And Darnell coming out of Georgia, he was an athletic player. I remember the play when he hurdled a guy on the sideline.”

— Brian Angelichio, Offensive Coordinator

“So he's athletic. You saw him in the red zone last year. He did a great job. Aaron trusted him to go up and get the ball.”

— Brian Angelichio, Offensive Coordinator

The takeaway

The Steelers appear to have a talented and versatile tight end group heading into the 2026 season, which should provide their new offensive coordinator with plenty of options to get the most out of that position group.