In his second season as a pro, Washington believes that there's a "strong possibility" he can emerge as more of a receiving threat, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports. In 17 regular-season contests as a rookie, Washington caught just seven of his 10 targets for 61 yards, however with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith on board, the 2023 third-rounder is a candidate to see more pass-catching opportunities in what figures to be a more tight-end friendly offense in Pittsburgh. At 6-foot-7, 264 pounds, Washington has the size to continue to make his mark as a run blocker, but the Georgia product has some untapped potential as a receiver and should have an opportunity to demonstrate that more in 2024, while working being top option Pat Freiermuth in a TE corps that also includes Connor Heyward and MyCole Pruitt.
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In his second season as a pro, Washington believes that there's a "strong possibility" he can emerge as more of a receiving threat, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports. In 17 regular-season contests as a rookie, Washington caught just seven of his 10 targets for 61 yards, however with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith on board, the 2023 third-rounder is a candidate to see more pass-catching opportunities in what figures to be a more tight-end friendly offense in Pittsburgh. At 6-foot-7, 264 pounds, Washington has the size to continue to make his mark as a run blocker, but the Georgia product has some untapped potential as a receiver and should have an opportunity to demonstrate that more in 2024, while working being top option Pat Freiermuth in a TE corps that also includes Connor Heyward and MyCole Pruitt.
Washington's snap count matched that of fellow tight end Connor Heyward on Sunday, but the rookie third-rounder had minimal production once again. Washington hasn't had more than one reception in any of his appearances this season, and he'll likely have even less of a role in the team's offense once Pat Freiermuth (hamstring) returns, which could happen as early as next Sunday against the Browns.