Somewhat surprisingly, former Georgia Bulldogs tight end Darnell Washington had to wait until round three of the NFL Draft to find out where he would be playing football on Sundays. The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Georgia’s huge tight end with the 93rd overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.
But the wait was worth it for Big 0 who now joins one of the NFL’s most stable franchises with a head coach who is a proven winner. Mike Tomlin is the winningest coach in Steelers history and has never had a losing season in his sixteen years in charge of the Steel City’s NFL franchise.
Washington’s fall into round three was puzzling for most who have watched him play for Georgia. NFL draft analysts cited health concerns as the reason behind Washington’s drop into round three.
The massive tight end’s unique blend of size and skill made him an intriguing option at tight end for NFL scouts. Washington is an elite blocker who will instantly add strength to the Steeler’s offensive line but it is his size at 6’7 and his ball-catching abilities which make him such a menace in the red zone.
The Steelers thus far have had a hugely successful draft with offensive tackle Broderick Jones already taken in the first round. The selection of Jones and Washington is significant for this Steelers offense which already has ex-Georgia sensation George Pickens, Allen Robinson, and Najee Harris on its roster. This gives Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett a number of quality targets for the upcoming season.
Darnell Washington has the potential to be a difference maker for his new NFL team as both Broderick Jones and Washington will provide excellent cover for Pittsburgh’s run game.
Frankly, Washington demonstrates extremely good business and great value for the Steelers at pick #93 signaling the start of exciting times in Pittsburgh.