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Darnell Washington says Zach Harrison was the toughest lineman he faced in college

ns_headshot_2024-clearby:Nick Schultz•03/03/23•

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Darnell Washington at the NFL Combine
Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

At 6-foot-7 and 265 pounds, former Georgia tight end Darnell Washington is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. But that doesn’t mean some linemen didn’t give him trouble in college — and one stood out above the rest.

At the 2023 NFL scouting combine, Washington said former Ohio State star Zach Harrison was the toughest lineman he faced. He admitted Missouri was a tough matchup, but he specifically pointed to Harrison as someone who gave him problems. The two squared off in the Peach Bowl, which Georgia won 42-41 and Washington only had one reception for nine yards.

“Missouri gave us a run for our money,” Washington said. “Ohio State, No. 9, y’all have seen him walking around. He’s as big as me, strong as me or stronger. Playing those high caliber players, you’ve got to come with your A game. If you’re not, they will embarrass you.”

Washington had a huge year in 2022 as one of Georgia’s two star tight ends alongside Brock Bowers. He finished with 454 yards and two touchdowns before deciding to declare for the 2023 NFL Draft, and he’s emerging as someone who can hear his name called on the first night. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper projected Washington to go to the New Orleans Saints with the No. 29 overall pick after his impressive season.

Former Georgia star Kelee Ringo training with Richard Sherman ahead of 2023 NFL Draft

Georgia‘s Kelee Ringo is already viewed as one of the top cornerbacks in the entire 2023 NFL Draft class and he’s also got a bit of an ace in the hole as he begins preparing for the next level.

He’s had the luxury of working out some with Richard Sherman, the long-time pro who was once widely viewed as the top cornerback in the league.

“Man, it’s been great. It’s just being able to learn from the legend himself, from technique-wise, mental game, being able to see concepts,” Ringo said. “It’s definitely helped me grow as a man as well, outside of the football things as well as just continuing to learn the game from a greater point of view.”