Athletic Profile
Height: 6065
Weight: 264
Arm Length: 34 3/4”
40 Time: 4.64
Vertical: 31”
Broad Jump: 1002
Shuttle: 4.08
Relative Athletic Score: 9.88
* Indicates Recorded At Pro Day
Statistics
2022: 28 REC / 454 YRDS / 2 TD / 1.77 Y/RR / 7.2 YAC/R / 40% CTC
2021: 10 REC / 154 YRDS / 1 TD / 1.41 Y/RR / 7.5 YAC/R / 50% CTC
Pros
Dominant Size
Blocking
Catch Radius
Hands
Versatility
Movement Skills for his Frame
Cons
Separation Ability
Limited Route Tree
Limited Receiving Production
Blocking Technique
Summary
Darnell Washington committed to Georgia as one of the top 25 players in the country in 2019 and immediately became a contributing player. A physical freak at tight end known for his blocking, he stepped in right away in a crowded Georgia tight end room as a meaningful player. Washington has the size of an offensive lineman and the movement skills of a tight end making him one of the most unique players in this class. Not surprising given his stature but Washington’s calling card is his blocking ability. Given his special size and length he acts as an extension of the offensive line, consistently washing down defensive lineman most TE’s couldn’t even think to handle. His length and quick feet give him the ability to block in the box and out in space. Washington does need to improve his blocking technique as leverage issues and inconsistent hand placement will become more of a concern at the next level when he cannot consistently dominate with his athleticism. As a receiver Washington had very limited production in college. Brock Bowers, his teammate, is an elite receiving tight end, meaning Washington got few schemed looks in that offense, often being left into block. When given the opportunity to make an impact in the passing game he showed off soft hands and excellent ball skills. Washington understands how to use his large catch radius and frame to seal off defenders. Despite being an exceptional athlete for his size, Washington is not very sudden in and out of his breaks as route runner. This combined with a limited route tree makes his immediate passing game projection at the next level very murky. The tape shows flashes of him being a solid pass catching weapon with better wiggle than defenders expect. Washington also shows an understanding on how to settle in zone defenses, a trait that should only get better with experience. Washington is one of the most uniquely talented players in this class, his ability to block in the run game at his size makes him a Top 50 player in this class. Flashes of impact play in the passing game and a special athletic profile gives him tantalizing upside. Washington will not be for every team but if put in the right offense with his ability to impact both the run and pass game he has a chance to be one of the most unique weapons in the league.
Grade: 6.35 - Mid to Late Second Round Grade (Potential Starter)
Games Watched: Auburn (2022), Ohio State (2022), Oregon (2022), South Carolina (2022)