George Pickens explains how good Darnell Washington can be with Steelers

Talent knows talent. On a recent episode of “The Rich Eisen Show,” Steelers wide receiver George Pickens gave props to rookie tight end Darnell Washington.

“He’s a specimen. I played with him in college so it’s kind of been some things that I’ve already seen. Like that one-handed catch, I’ve seen that a billion times,” Pickens said. “He’s going to be a real help to the team for sure.”

That one-handed catch Pickens refers to occurred earlier this week during the Steelers’ training camp. The 6-foot-7, 264-pound Washington snagged a jaw-dropping one-handed catch over a Pittsburgh coach.

The highlight play is nothing compared to Washington’s resumé. In his final season at Georgia, Washington recorded 28 receptions for 454 yards and two touchdowns. While the numbers don’t jump off the page, Pickens claims Washington was often used as a blocker instead of a receiver.

“At Georgia, it’s just like a block-and-run-first [offense],” Pickens said. “That’s really what they train us to do is to block first. I really wasn’t in an air-raid [offense], as you would say, or a passing offense first. I was in a pro-style. So, me and Darnell, for sure, know about blocking first.”

Most experts expect Washington to play second fiddle to Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth this season. Freiermuth had a breakout year in 2022, recording 63 catches for 732 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Starter or not, Pickens has had endless praise for Washington’s talent.

Additional praise for Darnell Washington

“Maximum Darnell Washington is probably the greatest tight end in the NFL,” Pickens said in a video posted to Steelers.com. “Just off of size, hands and the stuff that he can do. Learning plays and all the mental stuff, that’ll just come with Darnell time. But as far as physicality and his ability (nods).”

Unfortunately for Washington, Pickens doesn’t decide playing time. However, the standout WR isn’t the only one sending compliments Washington’s way.

“He’s unbelievable. It’s all over the tape,” Steelers offensive coordinator Matt Canada said earlier this summer. “He’s a giant human being that takes pride in blocking. He enjoys being a blocker like he’s been quoted saying. He’s a sixth offensive lineman. I mean, he really understands what his body can do, and I do think he can catch balls.

“They had so many weapons at Georgia, I’m not sure his totals are maybe what you might think they could be, but he is definitely a blocker. As a guy, we obviously formaled him, met with him there in Indy and we had him back. He’s a really really really good person, likes football, likes being physical and I’m really excited about it.”