Darnell Washington — 2026 Fantasy Outlook

Pittsburgh selected Washington in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, adding a tight end with an imposing combination of size (6'7" and 265 pounds) and athleticism (4.64 forty at the combine). His blocking technique needed refinement, but his raw strength already gives him an edge as a run-game contributor. In the passing game, he's unlikely to see high volume, but his speed creates a legitimate deep threat, and his hands make him a natural target in red zone situations.

At Georgia, Washington saw limited action in his first two seasons with modest receiving totals before breaking out in his final year with 28 catches for 454 yards and two touchdowns on 41 targets. His 17.2 yards per catch average in college underscores his ability to win down the field rather than underneath. At the NFL level, he figures to see the field primarily as a run-game presence, with his most meaningful offensive contributions coming on play-action shots near the goal line.

In his rookie season, Washington caught seven of his 10 targets for 61 yards. The Steelers gave him 25 targets last year, leading to 19 catches for 200 yards and one score.

In 2025. Pittsburgh showed more confidence in him as a receiver, highlighted by his career highs in catches (31), receiving yards (364), and targets (43). Washington worked closer to the line of scrimmage (11.7 yards per catch) with only one score. The Steelers had him on the field for 50.2% of their plays while missing almost all of their final three games with a forearm injury.