Darnell Washington

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	Rec	Yards	TD
Career		50	57	625	2
2025		16	31	364	1
2024		17	19	200	1
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This B- CVI reflects a solid value proposition for a depth piece at tight end, as the Steelers locked up Washington at just $1.3M AAV — well below the premium typically commanded by proven contributors at the position. While Washington's production profile slots him as a depth piece rather than a featured weapon, his combination of size, blocking ability, and developmental upside makes this four-year commitment look like smart roster building rather than a reach. The minimal guaranteed money ($0.9M) gives Pittsburgh excellent flexibility to cut ties if he doesn't progress, while the modest annual value leaves plenty of cap space to address other needs. At 22 years old with his physical tools, Washington represents the type of lottery ticket that can pay dividends if he develops into a more complete receiving threat. The Steelers essentially bought four years of control over a high-ceiling prospect without breaking the bank, making this the kind of under-the-radar move that championship teams execute consistently.

Performance Analysis

Darnell Washington earns an F for the Steelers at tight end, a physically imposing player who has not been able to translate his elite size into NFL production. Washington is built like a small offensive tackle, and his primary role has been as a blocking tight end. His receiving contributions have been almost nonexistent — he has not developed the route running or hands to be a factor in the passing game. Pittsburgh values his blocking in their physical offense, but a blocking-only tight end in the modern NFL has limited value. Washington needs to add a receiving dimension to his game if he wants to be more than a glorified sixth offensive lineman.