The Steelers drafted Sasquatch-esque tight end Washington in April out of Georgia. Built nearly like an offensive lineman, Washington made some fun plays downfield on occasion but totaled just three scores and 38 catches in 26 games as a sophomore and junior. It's blocking that he's known for, lining up in-line on nearly 70% of his snaps. The Steelers figure to utilize him as such right away, potentially working with him on his receiving skills to add a dynamic to their offense. If he struggles with that, a position change might be in order. Washington isn't an exciting Fantasy pick in any format, including Dynasty leagues since his long-term outlook doesn't involve a lot of statistics.
Washington (knee) is good to go for Pittsburgh's game against the Raiders on Sunday.
Washington is healthy and ready to go for Sunday, despite having missed Wednesday's practice. The rookie third-round pick has yet to be targeted through two games played, seeing only limited snaps behind Pat Freiermuth.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington: Upgraded to limited Thursday
Rotowire
Washington (knee) was limited in Thursday's practice, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
The rookie has yet to earn a target on 23 pass routes through two games and is well off the fantasy radar outside of dynasty formats. Washington's mainly been filling a blocking role.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington: Not targeted in opener
Rotowire
Washington wasn't targeted during the Steelers' 30-7 loss to the 49ers on Sunday.
Washington was on the field for 38 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps Sunday, which ranked just ahead of fellow tight end Connor Heyward, who played 27 percent of the snaps. Washington drew praise during offseason activities this year but was limited during the preseason. Pat Freiermuth (chest) exited Sunday's matchup, but Washington's fantasy potential should be limited if Freiermuth is available moving forward.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington: Impresses at minicamp
Rotowire
Washington drew praise from fellow tight end Pat Freiermuth after minicamp concluded Thursday, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
While Washington indicated that he felt as though he had room to grow following minicamp, Freiermuth praised the rookie's abilities. "He's putting it all together. The past two days he's looked really good," Freiermuth said. Washington was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but he slid due to concerns over medicals. It seems as though he's moved past those concerns for now, and he'll shift his focus toward competing for a role in the Steelers' offense during training camp next month.
