Bold take: Darnell Washington’s return could tilt the Steelers’ Week 15 showdown with the Dolphins in a major way. After being listed questionable with a concussion, Washington has been cleared to play and will rejoin Pittsburgh’s offense on Monday night.
Washington left Week 14 with a head injury and did not return, but he progressed through limited practices this week and earned clearance from an independent neurologist, removing him from the injury designation for the game, per Steelers spokesperson Burt Lauten. The club confirmed the update on social media, noting Washington is active with no injury designation.
In terms of production, Washington has emerged as a reliable option this season, posting 23 receptions for 288 yards and a touchdown. He’s evolved into the Steelers’ top target at tight end and also serves as a key blocker, contributing to both the passing game and the running game.
Injuries shaping the Steelers’ lineup against the Dolphins add gravity to Washington’s return. Pittsburgh will be without edge rusher T.J. Watt due to lung surgery. Cornerback James Pierre and tackle Andruses Peat are also idle; Pierre is out with a calf injury, and Peat is sidelined by a concussion sustained against the Ravens in Week 14.
In relief roles, Nick Herbig will slide into outside linebacker duties, Asante Samuel Jr. will make his first start at cornerback, and Dylan Cook will start at left tackle.
Washington entered the game listed as questionable along with another defender, defensive tackle and first‑round rookie Derrick Harmon, who is a game‑time decision after knee trouble limited his practice time this week.
The Steelers will release their final inactives 90 minutes before kickoff against the Dolphins.
Washington’s emergence has changed the tight end picture in Pittsburgh this season. What started as a three‑tight‑end setup—Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth, and Washington—has tipped in Washington’s favor, as he’s combined blocking prowess with increasingly frequent involvement in the passing game. His athleticism and physical profile position him as the go‑to tight end among the trio.
With another opportunity against Miami, Washington can continue building on what’s been a breakout year for him.
Subscribe to our FREE Newsletter for the latest news and updates on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
