The Pittsburgh Steelers have been on a roll in the 2023 NFL Draft. The team selected Broderick Jones out of the University of Georgia in the first round, along with Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton in the second round. After trading out of the 80th pick with the Carolina Panthers, the team snagged another Bulldog in Darnell Washington. The monster-like tight end, who stands 6'7", fell to the Steelers with the 93rd pick they received in the trade.
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Steelers tight end Darnell Washington makes incredible one-handed catch at the Combine.
Washington is a physical specimen who is freakish as a pass catcher. He’s like an extra offensive lineman who can make punishing blocks and clear space in the run game. Yet, he is also a big target in the passing games and flashed a 4.64 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.
The Steelers will look ginormous up front with the additions of Washington and Jones, and it could open the opportunity for Najee Harris to feast. Steelers Offensive Coordinator, Matt Canada was a fan of the selection, speaking to the media after Washington was selected.
"It's all over the tape. He's a giant human being who takes pride in blocking and enjoys being a blocker," Canada said. "He knows what he can do with his body and I do think he can catch balls. They had so many weapons at Georgia, I'm not sure his totals are maybe what you might think they could be."
No one can fault Canada for being excited about the selection. If fans were excited to see Washington fall to Pittsburgh, imagine being around him and seeing what he can do up close and personal. The running backs on the roster should excited about it, too. Imagine seeing Najee Harris coming down the field behind the giant Washington. The power running game could be a big advantage for the Steelers.
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Steelers OC, Matt Canada
Washington has said himself that he can be a sixth offensive lineman. Mike Tomlin and company will have a lot of ways to utilize this gigantic frame and blocking ability the best they can. There have been critics speaking on Washington's footwork in the blocking world. If he can become sound as an NFL blocker, this will be a steal for Pittsburgh.
How Does This Affect The Steelers Run Game?
The Steelers were 14th in the league in pass blocking, according to Pro Football Focus. They ranked 16th in the run-blocking portion as a unit. A full training camp and summer for Washington should help him clean up his blocking, allowing him to add serious value on the outside of the line.
The actual offensive line additions Pittsburgh made should help in these categories as well. Harris could have a lot of scrimmage yards coming his way if the line pans out as expected.
Pittsburgh is instilling its historic identity in this draft. The effective run game could be a major help for second-year quarterback, Kenny Pickett. The help would take a lot of pressure off Pickett, allowing him to settle into games and ultimately help out the entire team in the process.
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Steelers general manager, Omar Khan. | Maya Giron / Post-Gazette
Regardless, General Manager, Omar Khan and the front office have made it clear what they are doing. They have done a great job in their first draft. It should be extremely exciting when the new-look team takes the field in September.
Let us know what you think about Washington? Does he add value to the offensive line? How will this affect Harris and the running game?There's a lot to like about what the Steelers are doing, and we would like to know what you guys think about these selections.
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