ThePittsburgh Steelers have decided to ride the wave of some interesting generational balance on the roster. Future Hall-of-FameAaron Rodgers leads their offense while veteranCam Heyward continues to be the leader of the defense, and younger players are taking advantage of the now-or-never window for the team.
Very few players bridge that gap between past and present asDarnell Washington does. The young tight end has emerged as a key member of the Steelers squad and has been speaking up about how things are looking in the locker room.
Darnell Washington Hilariously Roasts Aaron Rodgers And Cam Heyward
Dec 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end/fullback Connor Heyward (83) celebrates with tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and tight end Darnell Washington (80) after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Speaking on Cam Heyward’s Not Just Football podcast, Washington joked about sharing the field with some of the Steelers’ veteran stars.
The conversation turned to what it is like to play alongside Rodgers and Heyward, two players with a combined NFL experience of three decades. Washington made it clear he has immense respect for both veterans before delivering the punchline.
“I love Aaron a lot. Just playing with a player like that and, you know, the old dudes like Cam, him — it’s for sure an honor just playing with they old asses.”
Darnell Washington on playing with Aaron Rodgers:
“ I love Aaron a lot. Just playing with a player like that and you know the old dudes like Cam him It’s for sure an honor just playing with they old asses.”#steelers
🎥 Not Just Football with Cam Heyward pic.twitter.com/PaRIX9H7Gk
— Matthew Luciow (@matthewluciow92) June 17, 2026
The lighthearted jab underscored something bigger. Washington has become fully integrated into Pittsburgh’s locker room. His relationship with Rodgers, in particular, continues to grow. The veteran quarterback leaned on Washington frequently during the 2025 season, especially in short-yardage situations. Their connection produced several explosive plays, including a memorable 36-yard completion against the Cleveland Browns.
Washington’s emergence also earned him a significant payday. According to multiple reports on June 4, the Steelers signed the former third-round pick to a four-year, $42M extension, which includes $21M guaranteed.
While Washington remains one of the league’s premier blocking TEs, his role expanded considerably last season. He finished 2025 with career highs in 31 receptions, 364 receiving yards, and 16 first downs, proving he can offer much more than extra protection in the run game.
The former Georgia standout has never shied away from embracing his role.
“Everybody’s got a different role. So I know my role. I’m not going to sit here like I’m a pass-catcher tight end.” (ViaSI)
With Rodgers under center and Washington continuing to develop, the Steelers believe their massive TE can be a difference-maker, even if he is still cracking jokes about the veterans leading the way.