Darnell Washington: From Tight End To Tackle? Steelers' Plan For The Rookie

Michael

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Post on Aug 08, 2025

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Darnell Washington: From Tight End to Tackle? Steelers' Plan for the Rookie

The Pittsburgh Steelers surprised many with their third-round selection of Darnell Washington in the 2023 NFL Draft. Known for his impressive size and athleticism at the tight end position, some are questioning whether the Steelers have a hidden plan for the mammoth rookie – could he be destined for a position change to offensive tackle? Let's delve into the speculation surrounding Washington's future in Pittsburgh.

The Intriguing Potential of a Position Switch

At 6'7" and 264 pounds, Washington possesses the physical attributes often coveted in offensive tackles. His length, strength, and surprisingly nimble footwork for his size make him an intriguing candidate for a transition. While he played tight end at Georgia, his blocking prowess was undeniable, consistently paving the way for the Bulldogs' running game. This experience could translate seamlessly to the demanding role of an offensive tackle.

The Steelers' offensive line needs bolstering, particularly at the tackle position. While they have veterans, adding youthful talent and depth is crucial for long-term success. Could Washington be the answer? His potential to fill a crucial need, combined with his remarkable physical gifts, fuels the speculation.

The Case for Staying at Tight End

However, before we prematurely pencil Washington in at tackle, it’s important to remember his primary position is tight end. He's already a highly-skilled blocker at that position, offering a powerful presence in the run game and capable of making catches downfield. The Steelers are known for their strong run game, and Washington could be an immediate contributor as a blocking tight end.

His potential as a receiving threat, while perhaps not as polished as his blocking skills, is also significant. With further development, Washington could become a valuable red-zone target, adding another dimension to Pittsburgh's offense. This could be especially crucial with the retirement of veteran tight end Zach Gentry.

The Steelers' Strategy and the Rookie's Future

Ultimately, the Steelers' decision will hinge on several factors, including Washington's progress in training camp and the team's overall assessment of their offensive line needs. The coaching staff will carefully evaluate his adaptability to the tackle position, weighing the potential benefits against the risks of disrupting his development at his natural position.

The team may choose a phased approach, initially focusing on his development as a tight end while gradually introducing him to tackle drills. This allows them to assess his progress and make informed decisions as the season approaches.

Conclusion: Patience is Key

The narrative surrounding Darnell Washington’s position is still unfolding. While the possibility of a switch to tackle is exciting and warrants discussion, focusing solely on that possibility overlooks his potential immediate contributions as a tight end. Steelers fans should remain patient and excited to see how this versatile rookie develops throughout training camp and into the regular season. His unique skill set could ultimately benefit the team regardless of his final positional designation.

Keywords: Darnell Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Draft, Tight End, Offensive Tackle, Rookie, Position Change, NFL, Football, Training Camp, Georgia Bulldogs, Zach Gentry, Offensive Line

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