Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, there was a great deal of hope that the previous Georgia Football tight end. Darnell Washington, could make his way into the initial round of this year’s draft. Nevertheless, as the second night of the draft began on Friday evening. There were reports emerging that Washington may be falling due to medical concerns.
Albert Breer announced on Friday night that Washington was “in play.” However, according to WalterFootball.com, many teams have “red-flagged” Washington and dropped him off the board. In the lead-up to the 2021 season opener against Clemson. Washington suffered a foot injury as well as in the spring of 2022.
At the NFL combine, Washington registered a 4.64 in the 40-yard event at 6 foot 7 inches and 264 pounds. He also recorded a 4.08 in the 20-yard shuttle, did 21 bench press reps, and had a 10′ 2″ broad jump. Washington is an exceptional prospect and he showed that at the combine.
Aaron Wilson, who covers the NFL for the Houston Chronicle, has noted that Washington’s knee is a concern upon further evaluation during medical assessments.
Washington was rated as a five-star prospect, the top player in the state of Nevada. And a top 25 player in the country coming out of high school. He joined the Bulldogs and was a part of the 2020 class. Washington played a significant role in transforming the tight end position for Georgia over the past few years.
Washington saw in-game action throughout his three years at Georgia. It was apparent very early in his career that the tremendous tight prospect could have a tremendous influence in an offense as both a blocker and in the passing game. He ended his college career with 45 receptions, 774 receiving yards, and three touchdowns. He had career highs in all three of those stat categories during his final season with the Bulldogs.
During his time as a collegiate athlete, Darnell Washington demonstrated his abilities to be an elite end-of-line blocker and his dominant presence in the passing game while also excelling at picking up yards after the catch. He played a crucial role in Georgia winning back-to-back national titles and now aims to continue his dominance at the professional level.
