Steelers’ Darnell Washington Responds To ‘Special’ Shout-Out From Rob Gronkowski

Darnell Washington has a legendary fan in Rob Gronkowski.

One of the NFL’s all-time greats gave major props to Washington on Thursday’s “Up & Adams,” drawing a parallel between the two tight ends’ ability to make athletic plays despite their immense stature. A flattered Washington responded to Gronkowski’s praise, per Steelers Now’s Brendan Howe.

“I mean, that’s crazy,” Washington said. “Everybody knows his status, his whole resume. So to me, I feel like that’s special.”

Gronkowski explained that he believes his popularity stemmed from fans enjoying watching the biggest player on the field make explosive plays as a pass-catcher. Those same traits make him appreciate the Pittsburgh Steelers tight end.

“Who also is making me realize that is Darnell Washington,” Gronkowski said. “Every time he catches the ball from the Pittsburgh Steelers, I’m so intrigued. And I cheer him on so much because I love seeing him run someone over and just how big and nimble he is for how big he is. He’s not that fast, and he’s not gonna produce a crazy amount, but whenever he does catch the ball, I’m just so in love with it.”

The 6-foot-7 Washington has yet to make an impact on par with Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion and future Hall of Famer. While the former New England Patriots star has the third-most touchdowns (93) among tight ends in NFL history, Washington has two through 48 games with the Steelers.

Washington is also gradually assuming a larger role in Pittsburgh’s offense, collecting a career-high 26 catches for 313 yards this season. The 24-year-old played 48 snaps in Monday night’s 28-15 victory over the Miami Dolphins and could help Aaron Rodgers in a Week 16 game against the Detroit Lions.

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