After the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 17 loss against the Cleveland Browns, Mike Tomlin was quick to say that Darnell Washington had suffered a broken arm. This wasn't the news anyone wanted to hear. Still, hope remained for his chances of suiting up again for a potential playoff run.
Several weeks back, quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered two fractured bones in his left wrist. After missing just one game, Rodgers was able to power through and has played ever since—even having the best game of his Steelers career in Week 16 against the Detroit Lions.
Unfortunately, this won't be the case for Washington.
On Tuesday, Coach Tomlin addressed the media one final time for his regular-season Tuesday press conference ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 18 season finale against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday Night Football. Tomlin was asked if Washington's arm injury was season-ending, to which he wittingly replied, 'This is a one-week season.' The head coach noted that Washington had surgery and will be out this week.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported shortly after that Washington had surgery to repair his broken arm on Tuesday morning, and that he is indeed out for the season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers won't have TE Darnell Washington if they make the playoffs
This is a disheartening reality that we assumed the Pittsburgh Steelers were facing. Now we have confirmation that Pittsburgh's secret weapon will not be available if Tomlin's team sneaks into the postseason with a win over the Ravens.
Washington's presence has made a monumental difference to the Steelers' offense this season. The 6'7'', 310-pound tight end has an exceptionally rare skill set, thanks to his ability both as a blocker and a receiver. Washington's soft hands served as a safety blanket for Rodgers over the middle of the field, and he has showcased the ability to create yards after the catch thanks to his physicality with the football in his hands.
Sadly, Steelers fans are going to have to wait until 2026 to see 'Mt. Washington' back in action. This is a catastrophic blow to an offense that already lacks DK Metcalf due to suspension.
If the Pittsburgh Steelers find a way to get past the Ravens this week, they'll be forced to attempt a postseason run without their star tight end. This is a hard pill to swallow ahead of a do-or-die Week 18.