Darnell Washington is showing significant improvement at the Steelers' OTAs, impressing with his agility and speed as a tight end. Standing at 6'6" and nearly 300 pounds, his blocking prowess is well established, but now his athleticism is catching up. Veteran reporter Mark Kaboly noted that Washington appears "quicker, faster, and more nimble" than in previous seasons, hinting at a breakthrough in his receiving capabilities. His development comes after concerns regarding his knee led to a drop in the draft, yet he is demonstrating potential as an emerging offensive threat. With a boost in production last season, he could become a crucial asset in the Steelers' offensive strategy.

By the Numbers
  • Darnell Washington improved to 19 receptions for 200 yards and 1 touchdown in his second NFL season.
  • Drafted in the third round, he originally drew attention with a 4.64-second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine.
State of Play
  • Washington's performance at OTAs signals a potential evolution into a dual-threat tight end.
  • The Steelers have struggled with offensive consistency, ranking lower in touchdowns scored in recent seasons.
What's Next

If Washington maintains his momentum, he could significantly contribute to the Steelers' offensive effectiveness in the upcoming season. Greater utilization of two-tight end sets may be on the horizon, enhancing their play-calling options. This shift could potentially alleviate the team's struggles in finishing drives.

Bottom Line

Watch for Darnell Washington to emerge as a key component of the Steelers' offense, leveraging his unique combination of size and speed. As he refines his receiving skills, he may help turn the tide on the team's red-zone performance, making him a player to watch this season.