Pat Freiermuth vs Theo Johnson: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Pat Freiermuth and Theo Johnson is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Pittsburgh Steelers tight end put up 5.5 PPG in 2025 over 17 games; Theo Johnson of the New York Giants averaged 7.0 in 15. A 1.5-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 1.5 points favors Theo Johnson, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one tight end to the other.
Both see steady target volume for the tight end position. Pat Freiermuth had 41 catches for 486 yards; Theo Johnson posted 45 for 528. At a position where most starters barely clear 7 PPG, this class of tight end is where the fantasy advantage lives week to week.
One scheduling note: Pat Freiermuth is off Week 9 and Theo Johnson Week 11. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in tight end for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
