Trending Now: 07/10/2025 - Darnell Washington Rumors Heating Up

What’s Next for Darnell Washington in Pittsburgh?

After acquiring Jonnu Smith, the Steelers suddenly find themselves with a crowded tight end room. Pat Freiermuth remains the clear starter alongside Jonnu Smith, pushing Darnell Washington down to third on the depth chart. 

Complicating matters further, Connor Heyward brings more versatility and value on special teams, making Washington’s role far from secure heading into camp.

That has led to questions about the future of the mammoth tight end out of Georgia. With roster cuts looming, Pittsburgh could look to capitalize on a growing trade market for capable, blocking-first tight ends.

Washington wouldn’t fetch much—likely a late-round pick or a pick swap—but he offers a team a player who can log 50+% of snaps, contribute as an in-line blocker, and make the occasional catch. We’ve already seen teams pay decent money for similar players, like Josh Oliver and Brock Wright, so the Steelers may prefer to move him now while he still has some appeal.

For dynasty managers, Washington is only a speculative add in deep TE-premium formats. His long-term outlook in Pittsburgh remains murky, and any value bump would likely have to come via a trade to a more favorable situation.