Travis Kelce, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s best tight ends, recently shared glowing remarks about Pittsburgh Steelers’ rising star, Pat Freiermuth. Kelce’s praise comes at a time when the Steelers organization is also making headlines, climbing higher on Forbes’ list of the most valuable NFL franchises.
Kelce’s Take on Freiermuth
In an interview, Kelce acknowledged Freiermuth’s growth and potential, calling him “one of the most exciting young tight ends in the league.” Kelce, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, has been known to set the gold standard for tight end play. His recognition of Freiermuth signals the respect the young Steeler has earned within league circles.
“Pat’s ability to make contested catches and his knack for finding open space in defenses is impressive,” Kelce said. “He’s only going to get better, and I’m excited to see how his role grows in Pittsburgh.”
Freiermuth, drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has quickly become a fan favorite for his consistency, versatility, and toughness. In 2023, he further solidified his reputation as a key weapon for quarterback Kenny Pickett, contributing critical plays and continuing to develop as a blocker and receiver.
Steelers’ Value Rises in Forbes Rankings
In addition to Freiermuth’s individual accolades, the Steelers franchise itself is enjoying broader recognition. Forbes recently released its updated list of the most valuable NFL teams, and the Steelers saw a significant bump, ranking among the top 10.
The team’s valuation reportedly increased by nearly 15% year-over-year, driven by strong merchandise sales, local support, and lucrative sponsorship deals. Despite playing in one of the NFL’s smaller markets, the Steelers’ passionate fanbase and storied history keep them consistently competitive in the financial arena.
The Forbes ranking reflects not only the Steelers’ on-field success but also their adept management and business acumen. As one of the league’s most stable franchises, Pittsburgh continues to thrive under the Rooney family’s leadership.
What It Means for the Steelers
Kelce’s comments about Freiermuth and the team’s improved valuation both highlight the upward trajectory of the Steelers organization.
- For Freiermuth: High praise from a player of Kelce’s stature cements Freiermuth’s place as one of the NFL’s brightest young stars. This recognition could also bring more attention to the Steelers’ evolving offense as they continue to build around their young core.
- For the Team: Climbing Forbes’ list bolsters the Steelers’ brand, potentially attracting new sponsorships and business opportunities. A higher valuation also reflects the franchise’s consistent ability to maintain relevance and success in the NFL landscape.
Looking Ahead
With Freiermuth poised for further growth and the Steelers gaining recognition both on and off the field, the future looks bright in Pittsburgh. As the team continues its pursuit of another Lombardi Trophy, the combination of emerging stars and organizational excellence ensures they remain a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
Whether it’s on the field with rising talents like Freiermuth or in the business world with their growing value, the Steelers continue to prove why they are one of the league’s most iconic franchises.
