Free agent tight end Zach Gentry is heading back to the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to NFL Network Insider, Tom Pelissero. Gentry was the team's primary backup tight end this past season and played in all 17 games. During his four-year career in Pittsburgh, he has totaled 39 receptions for 303 yards. While not a tremendous receiving threat, his biggest impact comes in the run game. He is by far the team's best blocking tight end and has shown great improvement on a year-by-year basis since being drafted by the Steelers in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
What Does This Mean For The Steelers' Tight End Group?
For now, the Steelers seem to have their three primary tight ends for the 2023 season in Zach Gentry, Pat Freiermuth, and Connor Heyward. This is not to say that the team will not explore their options at the 2023 NFL Draft, but any tight end selected would most likely be a later round, practice squad type of player. While the exact contract details for Gentry have yet to be released, it is reasonable to believe that it will be less than $5 million a year. Gentry will have the ability to prove his worth as a well-rounded tight end this season by receiving more targets from quarterback, Kenny Pickett.
There is perhaps no happier person in Pittsburgh right now than fellow tight end, Pat Freiermuth. The two have created a serious connection off the field, often citing each other as their best friend on the team. On the field, the two have a nice connection as well. Freiermuth is the primary pass-catching tight end, ending his 2022 campaign with 63 receptions for 732 yards and two touchdowns. He will undoubtedly serve as one of the primary focuses of the Steelers' offense this upcoming year.
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