REPORT: Darnell Washington Could Slide Due to Medical Concerns

Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, there was optimism that former Georgia tight end Darnell Washington could find his way into the first round of this draft, now he's sliding.

Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, there was optimism that former Georgia Football tight end Darnell Washington could find his way into the first round of this draft. However, as night two of the draft kicked off Friday evening, reports began to surface that Washington could be sliding due to medical concerns. 

Albert Breer reported that Washington is "in play" Friday night. However, according to WalterFootball.com, several teams "red-flagged" Washington and dropped him off the board. Washington suffered a foot injury in the lead-up to the 2021 season opener against Clemson as well as in the spring of 2022. 

• If the Steelers stick, Penn State's Joey Porter is one to watch. He was in a cluster of guys the team was considering at 17 (before dealing up).

• TEs in play tonight. ND's Michael Mayer goes early. Georgia's Darnell Washington? Maybe but there are medical concerns with him.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 28, 2023

Georgia Bulldogs tight end Darnell Washington (0) reacts after his touchdown reception against the LSU Tigers during the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

At the NFL combine, Washington clocked in a 4.64 in the 40-yard event at 6 foot 7 inches and 264 pounds. He also recorded a 4.08 in the 20-yard shuttle, did 21 bench press reps, and had a 10' 2" broad jump. Washington is as freaky as they come from a prospect standpoint and he showed that at the combine.

According to Aaron Wilson who covers the NFL for the Houston Chronicle, Washington's knee cause concerns upon further review during medical evaluations. 

Georgia standout tight end Darnell Washington, who excelled in games last season, has been pushed down on some #NFL teams' draft boards due to a knee issue, per league sources. Unclear how far he falls from original grades, which were high.

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) April 29, 2023

The medical red flags on Darnell Washington makes me sad. So much talent.

— Jonah Tuls (@JonahTuls) April 28, 2023

Coming out of high school, Washington was rated as a five-star prospect, the number one player in the state of Nevada, and a top 25 player in the nation. He committed to the Bulldogs and was a part of the 2020 class. Washington played a major role in revamping the tight end position for Georgia over the past couple of years. 

Washington saw in-game action all three years he was at Georgia. It was evident very early into his career that the monstrous tight prospect could have a massive impact in an offense as both a blocker and in the passing game. He finished his college career with 45 receptions, 774 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He had career highs in all three of those stat categories during his final season with the Bulldogs.

During his time as a collegiate athlete, Washington showcased his abilities to be an elite end-of-line blocker and his dominant presence in the passing game while also excelling at picking up yards after the catch. He played a pivotal role in Georgia winning back-to-back national titles, and now he will look to continue his dominance at the professional level. 

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• How Georgia Could Make SEC History During the 2023 Season

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