New Steelers Tight End Details How Overcoming Hardships As A Child Helped Him Achieve Success On The Football Field

There are quite a few people around the league who believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers' selection of Darnell Washington in the third-round was one of the best picks of the entire 2023 NFL Draft. The 6'7", 270-pound tight end was projected to go as early as the first-round, but saw his stock plummet after there were reports of a lingering knee injury. Regardless, those within the Steelers' organization seem absolutely thrilled to pair Washington with ascending star, Pat Freiermuth at the position. 

While Washington's on-the-field play has been covered extensively, Steelers' fans were able to gain insight in to his off-the-field story during a recent article posted on Steelers.com, written by Teresa Varley. During the piece, Washington describes the emotions he felt during the NFL Draft and how fortunate he is to be playing for the Steelers. 

"I had good conversations with the strength and conditioning people. The tight ends coach, Alfredo [Roberts], he is a great tight end coach and there is a good tight end group here. I bumped into Pat [Freiermuth] when I was there for my visit. We hit it off right away. We also hit it off when I met him at Penn State when I was coming out of high school," said Washington in regards to becoming a member of the Steelers.

Times Were Not Always Easy For The Steelers' Third-Round Selection

Washington has achieved tremendous success as a collegiate football player and now has the opportunity to play for one of the most prestigious franchises in all of professional sports with the Steelers. He has come a long way from moments in his childhood where he experienced homelessness, not knowing where his next meal would come from. Having an unstable home life as a child has undoubtedly motivated Washington to provide a better experience for his young children. The former Georgia star has big plans for his NFL career. 

"It's a blessing. At the end of the day, it's a blessing and more motivation for me to stay in this league as long as possible. My goal is to be in this league for double digit number of years. I don't know what God has in store for me, but I am going to work for it as long as possible," described Washington about how an opportunity with the Steelers will help his family.

Oftentimes, people describe professional athletes with high moral values as someone who is "an even better person than player." While this may sound cliché, this would absolutely apply to Washington, as he has fought literally his entire life to get where he is today. From going through the foster care system, to having to pick up a job during his time in high school, to help provide for his family, he has had to mature much faster than others in his position. His former coach, Kirby Smart, echoed this sentiment during Georgia's Pro Day this year. 

“He’s a very mature kid. He had to mature at an early age. He’s a father and he takes a lot of pride in that so there’s a lot about who he is," answered Smart in regards to the type of person Washington is off the field.

Washington Will Be "Big" For The Steelers In 2023

As demonstrated by his high level of play during his time in college, Washington is most impactful as a run blocker. His tremendous size and strength will undoubtedly help the Steelers pound the rock this upcoming season and allow for running backs, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren to shine. While his stats at Georgia do not jump off the page in terms of receptions, he is an ascending talent at pass catcher and is dangerous once he gets his hands on the ball. 

While it may take some time for Washington to adjust to the speed that comes along with playing in the NFL, there is no denying that he possesses the necessary attitude to be a successful player in the league. Washington has overcome countless hardships over the course of his life and has faced each head-on. 

The next chapter of his football career will be no different. He will have a tremendous opportunity in Pittsburgh to showcase why teams will regret passing on him during the 2023 NFL Draft. Steelers' fans should be thankful he lasted until the third-round. As mentioned previously, he may end up being one of the best players in the entire class. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation? 

What are your thoughts on the obstacles Washington has faced? Are you rooting for him even harder now? What are your stat predictions for him in 2023? Let us know in the comments! 

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