The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted tight end Darnell Washington in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft with hopes that he could dominate in the blocking game. In his first season in Pittsburgh, he had a limited role in the receiving game, getting only 10 targets, catching seven, and earning just 61 receiving yards. While many Steelers fans hoped for a bigger offensive role for Washington, his primary purpose was clear: to excel in blocking.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington makes incredible one-handed catch at the NFL Combine.
However, there has been speculation among fans about why the team hasn't involved Washington more in the passing game. This offseason, Pittsburgh traded away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, leading to concerns about the wide receiver room's depth. While George Pickens is expected to perform well, there is uncertainty about who else will step up. The Steelers have added several speedy wide receivers, but none have yet instilled confidence in the fan base.
Tight end Pat Freiermuth is expected to play a larger role in the receiving game under new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, who has a reputation for effectively utilizing tight ends. This has led to further speculation that Washington might see an increased role in the receiving game as well. However, Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo, who has observed Washington in practice, believes it is not advisable to involve him more in the passing game.
“I watch the Steelers practice and I never ever think they should throw to Washington more.”
When Washington emerged from the University of Georgia, he was recognized as a tremendous physical blocking tight end, capable of making significant plays in the receiving game when necessary. His scouting report from Bleacher Report emphasized his standout attributes: superb blocking ability, a tough and physical presence as an in-line blocker, and smooth target tracking skills with fluid movement when blocking in space.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington makes a catch during his college days at Georgia.
Despite these strengths, the report, of course, also pointed out his weaknesses, particularly his subpar route running and tendency to be heavy-footed. Additionally, Washington struggled to win contested catches, a surprising flaw given his physically dominant size.
Steelers' Darnell Washington Wasn't Drafted To Be A Dominant Receiving Tight End
In his 2022 college season, Washington played in 15 games, amassing just 28 receptions for 454 receiving yards and two touchdowns. These statistics clearly indicate that he was not drafted for his receiving prowess. Standing at an imposing 6'7" and weighing 270 pounds, Washington's sheer size makes him a formidable presence on the field.
With improved receiving skills, he has the potential to be one of the most intimidating tight ends in the NFL. However, whether Washington will enhance his receiving abilities as his professional career progresses remains uncertain, though Pittsburgh fans remain optimistic about his development.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington running a route during a game.
Fittipaldo has observed Washington during practices and noted that there is no compelling reason for the Steelers to increase his involvement in the receiving game at this stage. Steelers fans are eagerly anticipating how Smith plans to utilize his new offensive weapons and receivers in the upcoming season.
It is likely that the tight ends will play a more integral role in the offense. Consequently, whether Smith decides to feature Washington more prominently in the passing game in 2024 will be a key storyline to watch.
The potential for Washington to become a more versatile offensive weapon hinges on his ability to refine his route-running skills and enhance his proficiency in contested catch situations. As the Steelers work through their offseason program and prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Washington's development. His progress could significantly impact the team's offensive dynamics and provide the new quarterback room with a reliable, physically dominant target.
Ultimately, Washington's journey from college standout to NFL star is just beginning. With his physical attributes and the right coaching, he has the potential to evolve into a multi-faceted tight end who can dominate both as a blocker and a receiver. Pittsburgh fans, coaches, and teammates alike will be closely monitoring his growth and eagerly anticipating the contributions he can make to the team's success in the 2024 season.
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