Washington has always been known as a standout blocker, but the 6-foot-7, 264-pound behemoth took a major step forward as a pass catcher in 2025, setting career highs with 31 catches for 364 yards on 43 targets while scoring the second TD of his three-year NFL career. Pittsburgh relied heavily on its TEs in the passing game last season, and Washington finished third at the position in targets behind Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith, who had 54 apiece. Smith is no longer on the Steelers, but Pittsburgh brought in WR Michael Pittman, who is likely to demand more attention from the team's QB, whether that's 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers or a less experienced option. Pittsburgh's previous coaching staff saw value in getting Washington the ball in space and allowing him to rumble over tacklers, but he lacks the speed to create much separation from defenders and has just 625 receiving yards and two TDs through 50 NFL games, so new head coach Mike McCarthy will likely lean more on Washington's standout blocking skills than his mediocre receiving ability.