When the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Darnell Washington, there was a lot of excitement surrounding him. His massive frame should present a matchup nightmare for any defense. However, through two seasons, Washington hasn’t been very impactful in the passing game. His size has been a boon to Pittsburgh’s run game, but he hasn’t broken out as a pass catcher. However, according to Brian Baldinger, Arthur Smith believes that could change this year.
“If you look at the tight end room now, you have Jonnu Smith, you’ve got [Pat] Freiermuth, and you’ve got Darnell Washington, the massive third tackle who I think has a chance to break out,” Baldinger said recently on his podcast, The Best Football Show. “At least, that’s what Arthur Smith told me.”
It wouldn’t be surprising to hear that Smith loves Washington’s potential. Smith’s offense often heavily utilizes tight ends, and it’s very run heavy. Therefore, Washington could be the perfect weapon for Smith’s offensive scheme, if he can develop as a receiver.
In his first year in the NFL, Washington barely contributed to the passing game, catching seven passes for 61 yards. Last year, however, he took strides in that aspect of his game, posting 19 catches for 200 yards and one touchdown. There’s hope that he can continue to take steps forward this year.
Washington shared that he’s lost weight this offseason, planning on being a little leaner going into the year. It sounds like one of his main goals is to be more effective as a receiver. While the Steelers’ tight end room is crowded, Washington’s rare size could help him stand out.
The Steelers’ offense will need all the playmakers it can get this year. Aaron Rodgers has helped solidify the quarterback position, but outside of DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh doesn’t have many proven commodities at wide receiver. If the team doesn’t make any major additions to that group, then Freiermuth, Smith and Washington should have chances to contribute.
Rodgers has had success with big tight ends before, so that should help Washington’s attempt at a breakout campaign. He could be an excellent complement to Freiermuth and Smith, who are both better receivers than they are blockers. Don’t expect Washington to turn into Rob Gronkowski, but if he can at least develop into a reliable red zone threat, then his value in the Steelers’ offense could vastly increase.
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