Pittsburgh, PA – September 30, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have sparked heavy speculation after informing one of their veteran offensive cornerstones that trade talks are underway. Reports confirm his representatives have quietly begun gauging interest from potential suitors across the NFL.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted that multiple contenders are monitoring the situation closely, as his targets have dipped in a contract year. With Pittsburgh reshaping its passing game and younger pieces emerging, the front office views him as increasingly expendable.

That player is Pat Freiermuth, the former second-round pick who blossomed into one of the AFC’s most reliable tight ends. Through four games in 2025, he has recorded 17 catches for 163 yards and a touchdown, but his role has grown less secure as Pittsburgh transitions its scheme.

What sent shockwaves across the fanbase, however, was Freiermuth’s emotional reaction to speculation about a possible trade to the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh’s fiercest rival. His words spread instantly across social media, igniting debate throughout the league.

“IF THEY TRADE ME TO THE RAVENS, I’LL RETIRE BEFORE I EVER LINE UP IN PURPLE. I WAS BORN TO BE A STEELER, AND I’VE PLAYED EVERY SNAP WITH BLACK AND GOLD IN MY VEINS,” Freiermuth declared.

He added even more emphatically: “I’LL NEVER WEAR PURPLE – NOT FOR MONEY, NOT FOR TARGETS, NOT FOR ANYTHING. LOYALTY STILL MEANS SOMETHING, ESPECIALLY AGAINST OUR BIGGEST RIVAL.”

While a move to Baltimore appears off the table, several playoff-hungry teams are circling. Freiermuth’s sure hands, red-zone presence, and leadership still make him a valuable commodity despite uncertainty in Pittsburgh’s system.

For the Steelers, the decision underscores a commitment to building around their young receivers and evolving offensive philosophy. For Freiermuth, the mission is clear: find a new home if necessary — but never in Baltimore.

Stay tuned to ESPN.