Dynasty Rookie Profile: Darnell Washington

Tight End – Georgia

6’7, 270 lbs

Strengths

Washington’s athletic profile is Optimus Prime. He has a massive wingspan which gives him plenty of advantages on the football field. Those advantages include a large catch radius, excellent separation, and the ability to create separation at the second level. Not to mention the imagery of a corner trying to press him into coverage is as comical as you can imagine. His speed relative to his size also stands out. Furthermore, he may need momentum to become a threat but in a Derrick Henry-like fashion, once he gets about seven yards to get going, he becomes a destructive force for those who wish to try and tackle him.

Athletics aside, players do tend to aim for his legs to bring Washington down due to his size. We’ve seen him hurdle numerous defenders in college. His blocking will get him on the field early, showing some solid technique in run blocking. We’ll see how Washington does at the NFL Combine and I’d expect his stock will go up as people see just what an athletic beast he is. 

Weaknesses

Due to his momentum-based speed, quick passing game restrictions will limit Washington’s route tree. His receiving skills require more discipline and consistency in order for him to become a more reliable target in the passing game. Furthermore, his production was limited as he was the second tight end on a ball-control offense. He has missed some games due to a foot injury so it is something to monitor at the next level. 

NFL Fit and Draft Capital

Playing second fiddle in the tight end room to the best tight end in college football, Brock Bowers, will lower Washington’s stock some. It shouldn’t be forgotten that Washington himself was also a five-star prospect. Washington will be utilized in the red zone, which after the initial tiers of NFL tight ends, is all you can really ask for. The NFL should love these traits and rate him as an early third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Washington will be an early third-round selection in your dynasty rookie drafts this year.

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