Which Team Could Pick Darnell Washington In The 2023 NFL Draft?

University of Georgia tight end Darnell Washington doesn't have a college resume of high-end production, but his physical tools, massive size, and impressive athleticism have him slated to be one of the first players at the position off the board in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Washington played behind stud tight end Brock Bowers over his final two seasons in Athens, but the two-time National Champion got plenty of exposure and is sure to be high on the team's radar at the end of the first or start of the second round.

Let's dive into Washington's prospect profile and some potential landing spots.

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Darnell Washington Career Review

As a freshman and sophomore, Washington totaled just 17 receptions for 32o yards and one touchdown. In his final season as a junior, his volume ramped up a bit. Washington caught 28 passes for 454 yards and two touchdowns in 2022. Over this three-year career, he averaged an impressive 17.2 yards per reception.

He projects as a dominant blocker at the next level, but there's a belief that his best days as a receiving threat are ahead of him.

Standing 6'6" and weighing in at 264 pounds, Washington posted elite speed grades given his size. He ran a 4.64 40-yard dash and posted elite showings in the 20-yard split, 10-yard split, shuttle, and broad jump.

According to MockDraftDataBase.com, he is projected to be a second-round pick with a chance to go on day one.

Which NFL Team Could Pick Washington?

Potential TE-needy teams with picks at the end of the first round or beginning of the second round include the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, Indianapolis Colts, Las Vegas Raiders, Carolina Panthers, Tennessee Titans, and Green Bay Packers. Washington has visited with some of the teams listed.

However, it's tough to expect an immediate impact for fantasy football given his lack of receiving history. Washington might have the highest ceiling as a blocker and receiver among tight ends, but he's one of the youngest prospects and it'll likely take time for him to develop -- as it often does for tight ends.

Washington will be an intriguing dynasty league asset, but projecting a ton of volume in his rookie season is probably not a great idea.

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