The arrival of Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh has already begun to reshape the narrative around the Steelers’ offense. Whether seen as a gift from the football gods or a high-risk gamble, Rodgers’ presence instantly elevates the team’s potential.
Even in the early stages of minicamp, with no full-contact drills and limited installs, Rodgers’ influence is already being felt, especially in how he’s evaluating his new teammates.
One player in particular has captured Rodgers’ attention: second-year tight end Darnell Washington.
Washington, a 6-foot-7 athletic specimen drafted in the third round out of Georgia, has yet to break out. He recorded his first career touchdown in 2024 and has mostly been a developmental piece. But Rodgers sees more.
“I told Darnell (Washington) that he reminds me of Marcedes (Lewis),” Rodgers said when asked about the young tight end.
That comment might seem casual to some, but it’s game-changing. Lewis is a longtime favorite of Rodgers during their years in Green Bay. He built a 17-year NFL career as a reliable target and elite blocker.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must use Darnell Washington how Aaron Rodgers pleases in 2025
With 437 receptions, 40 touchdowns, and over 5,100 receiving yards, Lewis became a trusted piece in any offense—something Rodgers now seems to envision for Washington.
The comparison raised eyebrows, and for good reason. While Washington has the physical tools, he has not yet utilized.
If Rodgers truly sees a Lewis-like ceiling in Washington, it could force Pittsburgh's front office to reconsider recent discussions about acquiring another tight end, such as Jonnu Smith or even making a bold trade for Kyle Pitts.
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Rodgers’ belief in Washington’s skillset may be more than flattery—it may be a quiet message to the Steelers’ staff: “We already have what we need.”
That endorsement from a future Hall of Famer can carry weight. Rodgers isn’t just a quarterback—he’s a teacher, a strategist, and a leader who understands what makes a passing game click. If he believes Washington can grow into a consistent weapon, expect Pittsburgh to double down on developing their young tight end rather than shopping for external help.
Rodgers hasn’t even taken a regular-season snap for the Steelers, yet he’s already shifting the tone of the franchise. If his vision for Washington holds, the Steelers may have found their next great tight end—and saved themselves a roster move in the process.