DarnellWashington

News: 2 days agoWashington caught both of his targets for 18 yards during the Steelers' 20-13 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Spin: Washington was listed as a co-starter alongside Pat Freiermuth on Sunday, though the former didn't see a target from Aaron Rodgers until the second half. Freiermuth led all Steelers tight ends with 49 snaps on offense, though Washington wasn't far behind (43) and figures to be regularly involved in 12 personnel. The Steelers hit the road for a Week 2 clash against the Patriots on Sept. 20.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Though he never quite made it onto the fantasy radar, Washington was one of the most fun, surprising "breakout" players of 2025. Essentially an extension of the offensive line at 6-foot-6, 264 pounds, Washington is known mainly for his blocking. Still, the 2023 third-round pick played well enough that he was stealing snaps and targets from both Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth. Washington never cleared six targets or 10.7 fantasy points in any game, but he was effective with the ball in his hands and averaged 8.5 yards per target. Though Smith has been released, Pittsburgh's offense is no longer being led by TE superfan Arthur Smith, which is likely to lead to a lesser role for Washington. Expect him to operate as a rarely targeted blocking complement to Freiermuth.