Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to face the Miami Dolphins in a critical game on Monday night, and they just received some pretty significant news in the lead up to the game.
Ian Rapoport of NFL media has reported that Steelers tight end Darnell Washington has cleared concussion protocol and will be eligible to play against the Dolphins.
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Washington was concussed during Pittsburgh’s win over the Baltimore Ravens last weekend, so it’s surprising that he was cleared so quickly. But it’s obviously great news for the Steelers.
Not only has the 6-foot-7, 264-pound Washington been key as a blocker, but he has even emerged as a reliable target for Rodgers in the aerial attack, having logged 23 catches for 288 yards and a touchdown this season.
Washington has particularly become a factor in Pittsburgh’s offense during the second half of the campaign, with 14 of his receptions coming since Nov. 2.
The 24-year-old was originally selected by the Steelers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Washington played in every game during his debut campaign in Pittsburgh, but was mostly used as a blocker, finishing with just seven grabs for 61 yards on the year. He began earning some more usage as a pass-catcher in 2024, when he snared 19 balls for 200 yards and a score, but he has taken on a much more significant role this season.
In fact, the University of Georgia product is participating in 59 percent of the Steelers’ offensive snaps in 2025, a career high.
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Pittsburgh is 7-6 and is one game ahead of the Ravens for first place in the AFC North. The Steelers have gone just 3-5 since their 4-1 start, but thanks to the ineptitude of the rest of their division, they have held firm at the top.
Pittsburgh will also have matchups against the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns followed by another clash against the Ravens to end the regular season.
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