The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again banking on a strong running game and a conservative offense to win games this year. This will help hide what will likely be a shallow receiver room once again.
While Aaron Rodgers still has some juice as a passer, he isn’t the mobile gunslinger that he used to be. This has caused his game to evolve. The veteran relies on a lot more short passes and check-down reads than ever before.
This could allow for Darnell Washington to have a breakout season.
While the hype was relatively high for Washington entering his second season, he struggled along with the rest of the offense down the stretch. While more involved than his rookie year, his final stats were still disappointing.
Now, he could be in line for a major role on offense, and he could quickly become a security blanket for Rodgers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers may have a secret weapon in Darnell Washington
Let me be clear, Washington’s upside as a receiver is limited. He is never going to be a dynamic weapon that produces huge seasons. Instead, he is a blocker first who still has value as a big athletic target in the passing game.
For Rodgers, this should sound familiar. He had a weapon just like that in Marcedes Lewis. While Washington can still become a better receiver, he fits the mold of a big tight end who can pave the way on running plays.
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Despite being nearly 35 when he joined the Packers, Lewis carved out a solid role as a blocking tight end. He had almost 600 receiving yards in his tenure as well as six touchdowns.
Washington is much younger and more dynamic as an athlete. It isn’t unthinkable that he can double his production with a few extra targets, given the lack of receiving weapons.
In particular, he could develop some chemistry with Rodgers in the red zone. An area he has been underutilized in, Washington could quietly become a touchdown machine if he earns the trust of the veteran quarterback.
While other players will certainly produce more than Washington will, he could become an under-the-radar weapon for this team. When a quick check-down is needed, he can rumble forward for extra yards. In the red zone, he can become a prime target given his size.
Add in his blocking ability, and Washington could be in store for a great third season with the Steelers in 2025.