3 reasons Steelers can’t bench Diontae Johnson for James Washington

What Washington offers

Washington is one of the most unique receivers on this team, as he is billed as a deep threat despite not being an elite athlete. This is apparent on the field, as more often than not, Washington wins with physical catches instead of simply burning the defense. As well, he is a tough receiver with great hands. He isn’t afraid to take a hit, and when he does have the ball, he will run through you if given the chance.

His best trait is his ability to win deep, but the issue is, the Steelers aren’t throwing the ball deep. This has limited Washington in this scheme, as what he does best is essentially a nonfactor due to the issues persisting with Ben Roethlisberger. Right now, Roethlisberger is missing consistently with his deep passes and is instead focusing on the short game. This was evident against the Bills.

Washington beat Levi Wallace off the snap, but the pass was so poorly underthrown that Washington had to stop his route. Had that pass been on point, Washington would have scored. Instead, he had to try and adjust but the pass was intercepted instead. The Steelers are focused only on short passes, and while Washington can still serve a role there, he becomes more of a possession receiver instead.

Again, going back to the Bills game, Washington caught a short drag route, and despite having a little space, he couldn’t do anything with after the catch. He isn’t shifty like Johnson, he’s more physical. If the Steelers were attacking with deeper passes, then he would have a better fit within the offense. That said, with the offense playing like it is right now, Washington isn’t the best option to play.