Darnell Washington is a Steeler who isn’t talked about enough — probably because of his lackluster rookie season. But in Pittsburgh’s new offense, under the tutelage of Arthur Smith, Washington finally has an opportunity to shine.
And Russell Wilson has a front-row seat for it.
“Big Darnell,” Wilson said with a grin via Yardbarker’s Aaron Becker. “He’s, I dunno, 6[-foot-]8, about 305, running fast, big body. You give him a chance all the time down [field] and he makes great plays. He’s been showing up all camp, really, all OTAs.”
It’s great to hear Washington is showing up. Due to circumstances (mostly) beyond his control, 2023 wasn’t a season to remember.
According to Pro Football Focus’s premium stats, the tight end out of Georgia was on the field for 532 snaps, primarily as a run blocker. When used, Washington made nine (of 12) positive key plays in the receiving game, four for first-downs. He finished the season with seven receptions on just 10 targets.
“It really feels like his fourth year, but it’s really only his second. Obviously, there are only so many human beings in the world that are that big and can run that well and catch that good, too. He’s very skillful. It’s good to have him on our team.”
Washington should be a huge (pun intended) asset for Smith’s run-first, tight-end-friendly game plan in 2024.
#Steelers QB Russell Wilson on TE Darnell Washington.
“It really feels like his fourth year, but it’s really only his second. … Obviously, there’s only so many human beings in the world that are that big and can run that well and catch that good, too. He’s very skillful.” pic.twitter.com/sehHgVJAYt
— Aaron Becker (@Aaron_M_Becker) August 14, 2024
