Steelers Now
New Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers had high praise for third-year tight end Darnell Washington following the team’s first practice after mandatory minicamp.
“I told Darnell [Washington] today I haven’t had a tight end like him since Marcedes [Lewis],” Rodgers said. “And Marcedes, all-time great. Darnell is like a young Marcedes, able to do things in the passing game and dominate the line of scrimmage.”
It was a noteworthy endorsement from Rodgers, who spent four seasons alongside Lewis in Green Bay. The veteran tight end, now entering his 19th NFL season, most recently played for the Chicago Bears in 2024. Known for his longevity and toughness, Lewis built a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable blocking tight ends while also serving as a reliable safety net for quarterbacks in play-action and red zone situations.
The comparison adds weight to growing optimism around Washington’s development. A jump in his production, especially as a pass catcher, appears more likely entering Year 3. Reports out of ota’s indicated that Washington is moving well and playing at a lighter weight, reportedly down 15 pounds from last season. Combined with the high praise from a four-time MVP like Rodgers, all signs point to Washington taking on a bigger role in 2025.
Washington has already made a name for himself as one of the league’s premier run-blocking tight ends. He earned a 67.2 run-blocking grade in 2024, which ranked sixth among all tight ends according to Pro Football Focus. He also showed modest growth in the receiving game, catching 19 passes last season compared to just seven as a rookie.
Armed with elite size, improved mobility, and growing trust from one of the most decorated quarterbacks in NFL history, Darnell Washington could be primed for a breakout campaign. He may prove to be one of the Steelers’ most valuable weapons in 2025.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Aaron Rodgers Has All-Pro Comp for Steelers TE Darnell Washington
