The Remarkable 13-Year Career of Pittsburgh Steelers Tight End Ken Muth

The Incredible Career of Ken Muth

Ken Muth has been a staple of the Pittsburgh Steelers organization for over a decade. Drafted by the Steelers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Washington State University, Muth quickly established himself as one of the best tight ends in the league. With his large 6'5" 260 lb frame, Muth provided a reliable receiving threat over the middle for his quarterbacks Ben Roethlisberger and later on, Kenny Pickett. Let's take a closer look at the incredible career of Ken Muth.

College Career

Before becoming a star in Pittsburgh, Muth first made a name for himself at Washington State University. He played four years for the Cougars, finishing his collegiate career with 146 receptions for 1,818 yards and 21 touchdowns. Muth's best season came as a junior in 2008 when he was named a first-team All-Pac-10 selection. That year he recorded 59 catches for 713 yards and 7 touchdowns. His rare combination of size and athleticism made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams heading into the 2009 draft.

Drafted By the Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a history of great tight ends like Mark Bruener and Heath Miller. Looking to find another dynamic player at the position, they selected Muth with the 149th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Considered one of the top tight end prospects that year, the Steelers were thrilled to grab Muth in the fifth round. He was the eighth tight end drafted that year and would go on to have a far more successful career than those selected ahead of him.

Emerging as a Top Target

After seeing limited action as a rookie, Muth broke out in his second NFL season in 2010. He appeared in all 16 games for the Steelers, starting 12, and finished with 51 receptions for 593 yards and 3 touchdowns. The chemistry he developed with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger made him one of the team's top receiving threats. From 2011 to 2013, Muth exceeded 60 catches and 700 receiving yards each season. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2012 after an 82 catch, 816 yard campaign. Muth quickly became Roethlisberger's favorite target, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

Injuries and Comeback

The 2014 and 2015 seasons represented a low point in Muth's esteemed career. He suffered a torn ACL in 2014 that forced him to miss the entire season. Muth then struggled to return to form in 2015, appearing in just 11 games and totaling 38 catches for 351 yards. However, he embarked on an inspirational comeback starting in 2016. Over the next five seasons from 2016 to 2020, Muth averaged 72 receptions, 796 yards and 5 touchdowns per year. He regained his status as an elite, reliable tight end and helped lead the Steelers' offense. Muth posted a career-best 97 catches for 952 yards in 2018 at age 31, demonstrating how his game had aged like a fine wine.

Changing of the Guard

As Muth entered his mid-30s, the Steelers began looking for a successor. They spent a second round pick in 2021 on Pat Freiermuth out of Penn State. With the veteran Muth on the roster, Freiermuth was eased into action as a rookie and produced encouraging results. In 2022, Muth returned for one more season to provide leadership and serve as a security blanket for new starting quarterback Kenny Pickett. Though not the same dominant force he was in his prime, Muth's contributions did not go unnoticed. He announced prior to the 2022 season that it would be the last of his illustrious career.

Legacy of Excellence

When Muth suits up for the final time in 2022, he will conclude a remarkable career defined by excellence. His 693 receptions, 7,644 receiving yards and 49 touchdowns rank among the best ever by a Steelers tight end. Muth trails only Heath Miller in those categories in franchise history. Countless times, Muth came through when the Steelers needed him most. His chemistry with Roethlisberger was a pivotal part of the offense for over a decade. Muth deserves to be remembered among the best tight ends of his era and have a place in the team's honorable history.

As the sun sets on Muth's time in Pittsburgh, a new era dawns with Pat Freiermuth taking over at tight end. But the impact Muth made over 13 magnificent seasons with the Steelers will never be forgotten. He defined reliability, toughness, and excellence at the tight end position in Pittsburgh. Ken Muth's incredible career makes him one of the best draft picks and players in Steelers history.

FAQs

How many years did Ken Muth play for the Steelers?

Ken Muth played 13 seasons total for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2009-2022.

What were Ken Muth's career stats?

In his Steelers career, Muth recorded 693 receptions for 7,644 yards and 49 touchdowns.

When did the Steelers draft Ken Muth?

The Steelers selected Muth in the 5th round of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Washington State.

Who were the Steelers' top tight ends before Muth?

Mark Bruener and Heath Miller were standout tight ends for Pittsburgh before Muth arrived.

Who is replacing Muth as the Steelers' starter?

Second-year tight end Pat Freiermuth is taking over as the starter after Muth's retirement.