During the 2023 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers landed what was widely considered one of the top picks of the draft when they selected Georgia TE Darnell Washington at pick No. 93 in the third round. One of the main reasons the 6-7, 265-pound TE, who can block and run a 4.64-second 40-yard dash, slipped all the way to the third round was because of medical issues with his knees.

Washington was as surprised as anyone during his draft-day slide and even more surprised to find out it was due to concerns about his knees.

“It showed a taste of (the) best available top and I’m up there. Like I’m 33, they put me 33rd on the best ranking available. Then the next one is like 80, so I’m like, ‘Damn, I’ve been on the board a long time,'” Washington said via the Arthur Moats Experience With Deke podcast. “Then they had like Darnell Washington, knee problems, that kind of thing. But that was a surprise to me, because in college I had a knee scope one freshman year, but other than that I didn’t miss a single game because of my knees.

“I did the Combine and pro day. If I had two knee problems, I would have done one or the other. So I did both. I’m like, ‘Man, when I was running there, I never had any knee problems.’ I don’t know where they got that information.”

I can point to a lot of reports from the time, like Pittsburgh Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo saying the Steelers drafted Washington knowing he would likely never see a second contract. Or ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler relaying information from an anonymous scout who says knee problems have “sunk” U.S. draft stock.

As recently as January, Post-Gazette insider Gerry Dulac said the Steelers were “fingers crossed” about drafting Washington, while adding that he still harbors those concerns.

Washington hasn’t missed a game in his NFL career. He appeared in all 17 during his rookie season while playing 511 bouts. He has played in all six games this year with 220 recorded snaps. He was primarily used as a blocker, but his role as a receiver began to expand in year 2.

After just seven receptions for 10 targets last year, Washington already has seven targets and six receptions this year. He even had his first NFL touchdown. Oh yes, and this play in which he interfered with a defender. That certainly doesn’t look like a player with long-term knee problems.

Judging by his continued health, his lack of issues despite playing a lot, and his increased involvement in the passing game, it appears those health concerns are exaggerated.