Darnell Washington Emerging as Steelers’ Next Breakout Star
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ tight end is quickly becoming one of the most exciting players on their roster.
PITTSBURGH — The Steelers picked up a critical 34–12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, marking their sixth victory of the season and an important step in the AFC North race. Despite a chaotic game — including Jalen Ramsey’s ejection after a confrontation with Ja’Marr Chase and an injury that sidelined quarterback Aaron Rodgers late in the first half — the biggest positive was the rise of a new offensive weapon.
Third-year tight end Darnell Washington delivered the best outing of his NFL career. The 24-year-old hauled in four passes on five targets for 67 yards, setting a new personal single-game high. He was Pittsburgh’s second-most targeted player in Week 11, behind running back Kenneth Gainwell, who led the offense.
A Threat in the Open Field
Washington’s massive frame — 6’7″ and nearly 300 pounds — has always made him a matchup nightmare, but Pittsburgh is now fully tapping into his potential after the catch. The Steelers are designing plays that get him the ball in space, whether in the flat or across the middle, allowing him to overpower defenders for extra yards.
That strategy paid off again versus Cincinnati. Washington racked up an impressive 58 yards after the catch, repeatedly turning routine throws into chunk gains. His 31-yard reception in the first half set up crucial points before halftime and helped spark the offense after a sluggish start.
Each week, the big tight end looks more dangerous when he gets the ball with room to run.
Impact in the Run Game
While his receiving numbers grab attention, Washington’s foundation has always been his run-blocking. He earned early trust by becoming a key component of Pittsburgh’s ground attack. The Steelers’ heavy personnel packages — featuring Washington alongside lineman Calvin Anderson — have been their most effective rushing looks all season.
His blocking strength, technique, and sheer size make him nearly impossible to dislodge, giving him enormous value whether the Steelers are throwing or running the ball. Simply put, he has become too important to take off the field.
Drafted in the third round in 2023, Washington is proving that Pittsburgh’s gamble was well worth it. His breakout performance against the Bengals only reinforces that he is on track to become the Steelers’ next offensive star.
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