Last week, the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to a trade that had the league buzzing. Involved in this deal are star cornerback Jalen Ramsey and veteran tight end Jonnu Smith heading to Pittsburgh, along with a 2027 seventh-round pick. In exchange, the Dolphins receive longtime Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. When examining the Steelers’ depth chart post-trade, there could be an interesting dilemma. One that could hopefully benefit the Jets if it occurs. The arrival of Jonnu Smith could mean this former third-round pick could be on the trade block. If that’s the case, the Jets should consider trading for Darnell Washington. While not an established receiver yet, Darnell Washington could benefit the Jets offense if acquired. A trade for Darnell Washington would be a spark for the Jets offense.
Steelers Blockbuster Trade Creates an Opportunity for the Jets
Last week, the Miami Dolphins made their long-awaited trade of cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Two years after acquiring him from the Los Angeles Rams, the Dolphins packaged Ramsey with veteran tight end Jonnu Smith and a late 2027 pick. The Steelers sent Miami veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a late 2027 pick in return. While Jalen Ramsey is the key acquisition, it’s Jonnu Smith’s arrival that could cause an interesting dilemma.
Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith used Jonnu Smith frequently in Atlanta during Smith’s tenure as Falcons head coach. The veteran tight end finished fourth in targets for Atlanta in 2023. Although already long in the tooth, Smith offers upside as a receiver behind starting tight end Pat Freirmuth. So Jonnu Smith’s arrival could mean 2022 third-round pick Darnell Washington could be on the block.
Steelers tight end Darnell Washington on the trade block?
After winning two national championships with the University of Georgia, the Steelers drafted Darnell Washington with the 93rd pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite playing behind star tight end Brock Bowers, Washington became an important part of Georgia’s offense thanks to his run blocking. While not a focal point of the passing game, Washington enjoyed a productive 2022 with 28 catches for 454 yards and two touchdowns. However, like in Georgia, Washington would be behind an uber-talented tight end in Pat Freiermuth. He saw limited action during his first two seasons in the league. Through 30 games, Washington has only 25 catches for 253 yards and only one touchdown. However, these don’t paint the whole picture.
Darnell Washington dominance. pic.twitter.com/9zUjgIqcgm
— Derrick (@Steelers_DB) June 3, 2025
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Washington displayed great talent as a run blocker. According to PFF, Washington increased his run-blocking grade from 53.2 to 68.8. That’s among the highest run-blocking grades for a tight end in the league. While progress must be made in pass protection and receiving threat, Washington’s run blocking can be a valuable tool for the right offense. However, due to Arthur Smith’s history with Jonnu Smith, this could lead to Washington’s playing time taking a hit.
The Jets should consider trading for Washington
With Pat Friermuth establishing himself as the starting tight end, the arrival of Jonnu Smith will cut into Darnell Washington’s playing time. With the Steelers still searching for a number two wide receiver, they could offer Washington up for a trade. This is where the Jets come in. Darnell Washington could be a valuable tool to the Jets revitalized running game. His skills as a run blocker would be a perfect complement behind Mason Taylor in the tight end room. With offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand and Glenn putting an emphasis on the running game, the Jets will need to ensure quality run blockers on the roster. Who better to help than a top 10 blocking tight end in the league?
In addition, a Darnell Washington trade could benefit the Steelers, as well. Pittsburgh’s offense needs a second wide receiver behind the recently acquired DK Metcalf. Fortunately, the Jets have one of Aaron Rodgers favorite targets on their roster, Allen Lazard. Lazard’s spot on the Jets was always up in the air after Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams releases. Allowing Lazard to reunite with Rodgers in Pittsburgh gives the Steelers a true number two, while freeing the Jets up to give more opportunities for Josh Reynolds and rookie Arian Smith. Bringing in Darnell Washington could be a massive boost to the Jets run blocking depth. With an emphasis being placed on energizing the running game, the addition of Darnell Washington can be beneficial to the Jets.
Main Photo: [Charles LeClaire] – USA Today Sports
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