When the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted TE Darnell Washington in the third-round of the 2023 NFL Draft, they knew they were getting themselves quite the blocker. Having earned the nickname “The Sixth Offensive Lineman” during his time at Georgia, Washington came to the league with the reputation as an impressive run blocker with the tape to back it up.
Through three preseason games, we have seen that skill set translate to the pros as Washington has imposed his will on opposing defenders thanks to his size, strength, and aggressiveness in the running game. Washington particularly had a great showing as a run blocker against the Atlanta Falcons, finishing the preseason with a great performance we will go into a little bit deeper in a film room.