Darnell Washington is one of several tight ends that the Pittsburgh Steelers utilize in their offensive game plan. His massive frame makes him a useful target in their passing game and an excellent blocker as well. His skillset was on full display in Week 11 against the Cincinnati Bengals, and many around the NFL took notice.
Darnell Washington Praised by Fans for Strong Week 11
Washington entered Week 11 having totaled 14 receptions on 21 targets for 142 yards and a touchdown. He has been a key piece to what the Steelers do offensively.
He recorded 67 yards against the Bengals, which was already the most he’s recorded in a single game in his entire NFL career. Many around the NFL praised him for his strong performance, while also admiring the way that he uses his size to his advantage.
“In his defense, Darnell Washington is Shaq in a football uniform,” said one.
In his defense, Darnell Washington is Shaq in a football uniform
— Carl McCrae (@Carl_McCrae) November 16, 2025
“Darnell Washington is literally a lineman living his dream,” said another.
“Bengals look like high schoolers trying to tackle Darnell Washington,” exclaimed another.
BENGALS LOOK LIKE HIGH SCHOOLERS TRYING TO TACKLE DARNELL WASHINGTON 😂😂😂
— BET99 Sportsbook (@BET99Sportsbook) November 16, 2025
“Darnell Washington is built like a tank,” posted another.
“Darnell Washington is a grown man,” stated another.
“Darnell Washington is a beast,” added another.
The Steelers feature a trio of tight ends, all inside of the top 50 players in PFSN’s Tight End Impact rankings for the position this year. Washington ranks 38th, while Pat Freiermuth comes in at 20th and Jonnu Smith sits at 48th.
It’s rare for NFL teams to truly feature balance between three different tight ends all at the same time, but the Steelers have done exactly that this year. All three of them have exceeded 230 snaps prior to Week 11, but none have reached 300 snaps, demonstrating that they all get plenty of playing time in their unique offensive system.
The trio provides a combination of blocking and receiving for Aaron Rodgers in his first year in Pittsburgh. The formula may be unorthodox, but it has been seemingly working for them as they lead the AFC North division through ten weeks.
Washington has clearly helped them to build their lead in the standings, and he will now try to help them protect it. The Baltimore Ravens have been surging since Lamar Jackson returned from an injury, and now Joe Burrow appears to be nearing a return for the Bengals as well.