Coming into the 2023 NFL Draft, second-year tight end Darnell Washington was known primarily for his blocking. What has often been overlooked in his overall game is his offensive upside.
In front of coaches and scouts, Washington put on an impressive display during the 2023 NFL Combine, highlighted by a magnificent one-handed grab in the last drill. Similar to Georgia, Washington saw limited offensive usage, but when he did have the chance, he had a gift for huge plays.
His signature play came in Week 1 of the 2022 college football season against the Oregon Ducks, when he took a swing pass for a 25-yard gain, hurdling over a Ducks defender in the process. He would finish that season with a career high of 454 receiving yards on 28 receptions, two touchdowns, and a catch percentage of 68.3%. In essence, it was a small sample of his offensive potential.
For Washington this season, things should change dramatically with former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith as the Pittsburgh Steelers new offensive coordinator. Since his time as an offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans, his offensive schemes have been mainly predicated on running backs and tight ends. According to analyst Dave Choate of "The Falcoholic," Smith often used two tight end sets with the occasional three tight end formations.
Ultimately, this should translate to an increase in targets for Washington and more opportunities to produce offensively. At 6'7 and 265 lbs, Washington's size should benefit the team in red zone situations, creating mismatches against opposing defensive backs. Above all, this season should give him the chance to show that he can become the type of player that can help expand the offense during the course of the season.
Comments