Penn State tight end Pat Freiermuth declares for 2021 NFL Draft

Penn State junior Pat Freiermuth declared for the 2021 NFL Draft.

The 2019 All-American and 2020 Big Ten tight end of the year made the expected announcement Sunday, just a day after the Lions topped Illinois, 56-21, to end their season at 4-5.

“It has been an absolute honor representing the Blue and White these past three seasons,” Freiermuth said. “When I received my offer from Penn State, I knew right away it was the place I wanted to be. Obviously, the way my career ended wasn’t what I wished for, needing season-ending surgery on my shoulder. Nittany Nation, I can promise you, I gave you everything I had.

“After many conversations with my loved ones and coaches, I have decided to forgo my final year of eligibility and officially declare for the 2021 NFL Draft.

Freiermuth, who is from Massachusetts, has not suited up for a few weeks after having season-ending surgery. He caught 23 passes for 310 yards and a touchdown in four games this fall. Freiermuth leaves as the school’s all-time tight end touchdown receptions leader with 16.

“I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this step in my career. My mom, dad, brother, Tim, sister, Megan, the Harvilles, the Foleys, my friends, my coaches, Pentucket High School and the Brooks School. Thank you to the athletic training, strength and academic staffs, as well as everyone else for helping me reach my full potential here at Penn State,” Freiermuth said. “Thank you to Coach Franklin for giving me the opportunity to play for this storied program and everything you’ve helped me accomplish along the way. Like we always tell each other: ‘family for life.’

“Thank you to Coach Bowen for pushing me every day in every aspect of my college career. Each day you demanded excellence from me and pushed me to become the player I am today, and I owe you the world for that. Lastly, thank you to the amazing fan and alumni base for the continued support throughout my career. I cannot wait to continue to represent Penn State University for the rest of my life.”

After getting an extra season out of Freiermuth, who could have left for the 2020 NFL Draft if he wanted to, Penn State should have of depth heading into next season. Down the stretch, Brenton Strange and Theo Johnson were willing blockers who showcased explosion in the passing game. There’s also Zack Kuntz, Tyler Warren and Class of 2020 signee Khalil Dinkins.

“We sincerely appreciate Pat’s contributions to our football program and Penn State University,” Penn State coach James Franklin said. “He is a person of high character who has perfectly exemplified our core values. From Day 1, Pat totally bought into our program and helped drive our culture forward. In the locker room, his actions were recognized by his teammates as he was a two-time captain. On the field, his success was well documented as an All-American, All-Big Ten performer and the Big Ten’s Kwalick-Clark Tight End of the Year this year despite only playing four games due to an injury.

“Pat is making the best decision for himself, his family and I fully support his choice. One of my responsibilities as head coach is to ensure all our players maximize their potential and fulfill their dreams. I am excited to see Pat chase his professional aspirations, and I am confident he will succeed in the NFL and whatever else in his future that he sets his mind on!”

Freiermuth is not expected to be the only Lion to leave early for the pros, as receiver Jahan Dotson and tackle Rasheed Walker are among the others with decisions to make.