The Pittsburgh Steelers have not received much good injury news this year, but they finally got some on Sunday. Tight end Darnell Washington cleared the concussion protocol after three straight limited practices and will play against the Miami Dolphins.
Washington’s presence was missed after going out in the first half of the game. Fellow tight end Connor Heyward acknowledged play calls changed. The team even had to draw up some plays on the fly at halftime with Washington inured.
“It was a big hit to the team. Art came in here to make some adjustments. Everyone followed and drew up a couple of plays at halftime in case we had to run them,” Heyward said.
Even without Washington, the Steelers surged ahead offensively. Still, having him for this game against a team that is known for allowing explosive runs throughout the season is huge considering just how much Washington affects the team’s rushing attack.
On top of that, the Steelers should have linebacker Malik Harrison, who also cleared concussion protocol, but they will not have starting left tackle Andrus Peat, who never practiced this week after suffering a concussion last week against the Ravens.
Washington’s inclusion gives the Steelers a fully healthy offense outside of the left tackle position and their biggest weapon as a blocker in the run game.
