How did Darnell Washington perform in the Steelers' training camp?

Darnell Washington, the Steelers' rookie tight end, delivered a dominant performance in the team's backs-on-backers drill, defeating several top defensive players including T.J. Watt.

What makes Darnell Washington's performance significant?

Coming out of college, Washington was considered the best pass-blocking tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft class. His impressive showing in the drill suggests he's ready to challenge for playing time and targets in the Steelers' offense, despite the team's recent acquisition of Pro Bowl TE Jonnu Smith.

What are the Steelers' expectations for Darnell Washington in 2025?

With his size and blocking ability, the Steelers are hoping Washington can emerge as a key contributor in their offense this season, potentially challenging Smith and Pat Freiermuth for playing time and targets.

Home / Sports / Steelers Rookie Tight End Dominates Backs-on-Backers Drill

Steelers Rookie Tight End Dominates Backs-on-Backers Drill

2 Aug

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Summary

Darnell Washington defeats top Steelers defenders in training camp drill
Washington billed as best pass-blocking TE in 2023 NFL Draft
Acquisition of Jonnu Smith puts pressure on Washington to prove himself

Steelers Rookie Tight End Dominates Backs-on-Backers Drill

On August 2nd, 2025, during the Steelers' Friday Night Lights practice, rookie tight end Darnell Washington turned heads with a standout performance in the team's iconic backs-on-backers drill. The 6'7" tight end reportedly defeated a number of the Steelers' top defensive players, including Jack Sawyer, DeMarvin Leal, Alex Highsmith, and even the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback, T.J. Watt.

Coming out of college, Washington was widely regarded as the best pass-blocking tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft class. The Steelers were quick to snap him up in the third round, despite many predicting a Year 3 breakout for the young TE. However, the team's recent acquisition of Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith had put a damper on expectations for Washington.

Clearly, the rookie is ready to prove he's more than just a complementary piece. His dominant performance in the backs-on-backers drill suggests he's poised to challenge Smith and fellow TE Pat Freiermuth for playing time and targets in the Steelers' offense this season. With his impressive size and blocking ability, Washington appears determined to show that opposing defenses will have to account for him as well in 2025.

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