The Pittsburgh Steelers followed up their hot streak with one of the worst games they have played throughout the 2025 season. In a contest that could have led to an AFC North title, they completely sputtered on offense and lost 13-6 to the lowly Cleveland Browns. Huntington Bank Stadium has been kryptonite for the black and gold, but this felt especially bad. Now, the team faces a do-or-die game in Week 18 against the Baltimore Ravens to see which franchise moves on and which organization's season ends early.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin on the field before facing the Cleveland Browns in Week 12.
Steelers fans got some bad news after the game as well that could impact the upcoming contest. Tight end Darnell Washington left the Week 17 matchup with an arm injury. He was seen in the locker room with his arm in a sling and all bandaged up, signifying that the issue could be significant.
Darnell Washington’s left wrist was wrapped from his hand to his bicep and his arm was in a sling. Didn’t look good.
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) December 28, 2025
Washington has become a key piece to the offense with his ability to both block like a tackle and run routes like a receiver. That is usually the calling card for a tight end but being 6'7" and over 300 pounds makes that even more impressive, especially when you can run over people like it's nothing. Now, the rest of his season is in question, as that kind of treatment for an arm injury is never a good sign for the short-term future.
Harrison Barden / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers tight end Darnell Washington stiff arms a defender during Pittsburgh's 34-12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 11 of the 2025 NFL Regular Season.
Steelers Get Unfortunate Confirmation On What Happened To Washington
During his post-game press conference, Head Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Washington broke his arm while trying to run over a defender, which means he is likely out for the foreseeable future, and maybe even the postseason, depending on how far the Steelers go.
"Darnell Washington has a broken arm," Tomlin said. "He wasn't able to go back in."
That is horrible news for Pittsburgh. One of the biggest pieces to this unorthodox offense is now gone, and that's on top of other injuries and suspensions to the unit. There may not be a single player on the offense that is more valuable for the unit's success than he is with everything he is capable of. Losing him against the Ravens could be the difference in winning the division and going home.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers tight end Darnell Washington grips a football while getting warmed up on the field before a 2025 training camp practice at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
What do you think about Washington's sudden injury against the Browns? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.
#SteelerNation
