Darnell Washington Gets High Praise from Aaron Rodgers

When Aaron Rodgers talked about new Steelers tight end Darnell Washington, he didn’t hesitate to drop a familiar name, Marcedes Lewis. The comparison raised some eyebrows, but for those who have followed both players, it makes perfect sense. Rodgers described Washington as “able to do things in the passing game dominate the line of scrimmage.”

At the 2023 NFL Combine, Washington measured 6’7″, 264 pounds, but anyone who’s seen him in pads knows that number doesn’t tell the whole story. On the field, he looks closer to 300 pounds, towering over both defenders and teammates. Despite that massive frame, he moves like a much smaller athlete, smooth, agile, and explosive in tight spaces.

Marcedes Lewis, listed at 6’6″, 267 pounds when he entered the league in 2006, was built similarly. For nearly two decades, he used that size to wear down defenders, acting like a sixth offensive lineman while remaining a threat in the red zone. Rodgers leaned on Lewis in Green Bay, not because of flashy stats, but because he did the dirty work, blocking, sealing the edge, and setting a physical tone.

Both players built their reputations on blocking first. Lewis became one of the best in-line blockers of his era, and Washington showed that same kind of skill at Georgia. He regularly overwhelmed edge rushers and linebackers with sheer power, sometimes even more impressive than the highlight-reel grabs.

Rodgers has always valued tight ends who can protect the quarterback and help control the run game. That’s part of why Lewis stuck around in Green Bay well into his late 30s. Watching Washington’s tape, seeing his raw strength and discipline, Rodgers likely saw that same impact potential.

Neither came into the league as a pass-catching tight end, but both have reliable hands and can make tough catches in traffic. At Georgia, Washington averaged over 16 yards per reception and made his share of big plays, thanks to his long stride and surprising top-end speed.

Rodgers isn’t comparing Washington to Lewis because he expects him to rack up targets. He sees someone who can move the chains, block like a lineman, and deliver in important moments.

Arguably the most important similarity between the two isn’t physical, it’s mental. Lewis was a pro in every sense, known for his consistency, leadership, and team-first attitude. Washington, though just starting his career, has already drawn praise for being coachable, hard-working, and committed to doing whatever the team needs.

Rodgers has always appreciated players who understand their role and take pride in doing it well. Washington’s willingness to play physically, handle the dirty work, and stay focused probably reminded Rodgers of Lewis more than any stat line could.

This wasn’t a throwaway comment. Rodgers saw something real in Darnell Washington, a young player with rare tools, maturity beyond his years, and a skillset that can impact the way an offense functions. Washington will probably never be a 1,000-yard receiver. Neither was Lewis. But if he can continue to power the run game, help protect the quarterback, and step up in key situations, he’ll consistently be one of the toughest matchups for defenses.

And if Rodgers is right, the young tighe end may become even more valuable to the Black & Gold.

Continue to check out the Steel Curtain Network for Steelers news and updates.

Stay Blessed and Stay Positive… “Here We Go”