The Pittsburgh Steelers have several high-level veterans who are looking for extensions this offseason. One of those players is versatile tight end Darnell Washington, who has proven his capabilities as a receiver and run-blocker. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing over 310 pounds, the former Georgia Bulldog could earn a lucrative second contract.
However, the Steelers may not be the team to do it. According to Steelers insider Mark Kaboly, the organization could certainly make Washington a high-priority signing this offseason. But, there might be an issue. Not only does Washington have an injury history, but the Steelers’ new coaching staff might have a different opinion on his value.
The Pittsburgh Steelers May Not Want to Re-Sign Darnell Washington
GettyDarnell Washington caught 31 passes for 364 yards and a touchdown last season.
Here is what Kaboly wrote on social media on Wednesday about the potential drawbacks of an extension for Washington:
“Still, determining his worth is not easy. Teams could be scared away by a big contract because of his perceived chronic knee issues. That’s not speculation but real. The issue with the Steelers is that it is a new staff, and it’s difficult to determine if they value what Washington provides like the previous regime.”
Kaboly later questioned whether or not the Steelers can afford to wait and see how Washington performs in 2026. But if they took that route, they could risk losing him.
Furthermore, with veteran tight end Charlie Kolar agreeing to a three-year deal worth $24 million with the Los Angeles Chargers, the tight end market could very well be set. Would the Steelers want to pay a tight end, who is more of a backup, that much money? It might be hard to do.
Darnell Washington Could Be Hard to Replace
GettyDarnell Washington averaged 11.7 yards per reception in 2025.
While extending Washington may come with some concerns, the Steelers may end up deciding that they want to put up with those concerns in order to keep him in the fold. The two-time national champion is beloved by his teammates, especially future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Speaking of Rodgers, if the four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion decides to run it back for another season in the Steel City, could he speak up for Washington in this situation? Could he help give his former and potentially current head coach, Mike McCarthy, and offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio some perspective on what the bruising tight end brings to the table? After all, his voice carries a lot of weight.
Regardless, it will be interesting to see what role Washington plays in McCarthy’s offense this upcoming season. After the team decided to cut ties with veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, the position group is a little less clogged. Pat Freiermuth and Washington are the only two notable tight ends on the roster. Of course, GM Omar Khan could decide to draft that position with one of the team’s 12 draft picks. Nevertheless, the future of Washington’s Steelers tenure could be decided over the next few weeks.
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