Rookie Scouting Profile: Darnell Washington

FullTime Fantasy Rookie Scouting Profile: TE Darnell Washington

Darnell Washington (TE) Georgia

Height	Weight	40-Time	DOB	NFL Draft	Dynasty ADP	NFL Comp
6-7	264	4.64	08/17/2001	Round 2	3.02	Martellus Bennett

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College Production

Washington displayed efficiency throughout his tenure at Georgia, particularly in his third year. During the 2022 season, Washington was given the nod to begin in 11 out of the 12 usual season games and amassed 28 receptions for 454 yards and two scores. In his previous two seasons, Washington also generated some output, albeit to a lesser extent. During the 2021 campaign, Washington snagged 10 catches for 154 yards and a touchdown. Also, in 2020, Washington made seven receptions for 166 yards, but he was unable to record any touchdown catches.

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Strengths

• Washington is an enormous tight end, standing at 6-7 and weighing 270 lbs, with the power and drive-blocking ability of an offensive tackle.

• He is an elite blocker, particularly as a run blocker, and could easily be mistaken for an O-Lineman.

• Washington has an elite catch radius and soft, strong hands, making him adept at grabbing off-target passes.

• Despite his size, he is a powerful open-field runner with agility, surprising quickness, and speed.

• He is a coordinated hands catcher who does a great job of digging out low throws. He’s very skilled with the ball in his hands and is a violent runner after the catch, often using a straight arm to fend off defenders.

• He’s very good in contested-catch situations, using his frame to make plays while facing the quarterback. He also has a knack for high-pointing the ball over defensive backs.

Concerns

• Washington appears unfazed by congestion, often not attempting to create separation.

• He possesses average long speed and lacks a second gear, making him incapable of challenging the top of the defense.

• Throughout his three years at Georgia, Washington was not heavily involved in the team’s offense as a receiver, garnering only 45 targets.

• Due to his average top-end speed, he does not require safety help over the top and is mostly viewed as a short-range target.

Fantasy Outlook

Darnell Washington is an intriguing dynasty prospect for fantasy football managers. He has an impressive physical profile, standing at 6’7″ and weighing 265 pounds, with a remarkable wingspan of 7’3″.

His size and athleticism make him an enticing target for dynasty leagues.

Currently, Washington’s dynasty fantasy football ADP is relatively low in the late 3rd round, providing an opportunity for savvy fantasy managers to acquire him at a reasonable cost. If he can develop his route running and refine his game, he has the potential to be a dominant tight end in the NFL.

As for possible NFL landing spots, the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans could be excellent fits for his skillset. In Buffalo, he could form an intimidating duo with fellow tight end Dawson Knox, creating mismatches for opposing defenses. With the Titans, he could serve as a valuable target in the passing game, while also providing an extra blocker for Derrick Henry in the run game.

When it comes to player comparisons, Washington’s size and athleticism bring to mind players like Rob Gronkowski and Mercedes Lewis. While he may not be as polished as these veterans yet, his potential is undeniable, and he could develop into a similarly dominant player if given the opportunity.

In dynasty leagues, Washington is definitely worth considering as a high-upside pick, especially for managers in need of a tight end. If Washington lands in a TE-friendly offense that would help him make an early impact. While there may be some growing pains as he adjusts to the NFL game, his unique physical traits and potential as a receiver make him an intriguing pick.