It only took three weeks, but the Steelers' offense is finally starting to come alive... at least by their standards. In Week 3, Pittsburgh broke the 20-point barrier that, to former offensive coordinator Matt Canada, was like scaling the heights of Mount Everest.
This performance against the LA Chargers offered hope, as quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver Calvin Austin III had their best games in a Steelers uniform to date.
But there's another offensive weapon who isn't getting enough love entering Week 4.
Arthur Smith wants to change that. Pittsburgh's new OC spoke to the media on September 26 where he gushed over Darnell Washington and what he brings to the table for the Steelers.
"I've never had a tight end like Darnell with that size and athletic ability," Smith exclaimed. "He's such a unique player. He's had some really dominant blocks. It's exciting as a coach. The sky is the limit for him."
After struggling with assignments as a rookie, Washington has hit the ground running in year two. While he does have a touchdown reception from a back-shoulder fade in Week 2 against the Broncos, the big tight end has just two catches for 15 yards entering Week 4... and that's okay.
Washington proves to a dominant force as a blocker for Steelers
The reality is that Darnell Washington isn't going to be lighting up the box score with huge receiving performances. Despite testing as a terrific athlete at the 2023 NFL Combine, the 6'7'', 270-pound tight end has hip tightness and a lack of suddenness, which limits his ability as a receiving threat.
The good news is that Washington more than makes up for his lack of juice in the receiving game thanks to his unmatched ability as a blocker from the tight end position. The Georgia product uses his remarkable frame and strength to pave roads in the running game.
In pass protection, Washington essentially serves as a third offensive tackle, and he can be seen stonewalling impressive pass rushers like Matt Judon on film.
Even with the lack of production in the receiving game, Washington is Pro Football Focus' 6th-ranked tight end entering Week 4 with an overall grade of 72.7 (thanks to his blocking ability). What's most encouraging is the impact he is making after turning just 23 years old before the start of the 2024 season.
It's not hard to see why Arthur Smith is raving about his young tight end, and Steelers fans should be too. We're excited to see what's in store as he continues to develop as a football player.