5 bold predictions for the Steelers against the Bengals

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 19: Running back Najee Harris #22 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs with the ball against cornerback Damon Arnette #20 of the Las Vegas Raiders in the fourth quarter of the game at Heinz Field on September 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

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ORCHARD PARK, NY – SEPTEMBER 12: James Washington #13 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs the ball after a catch against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

James Washington will have a big day

Diontae Johnson’s status is still up in the air for Week 3. The third-year receiver was carted off the field after the last play of the game in Week 2 with an apparent knee injury. Even if Johnson does play, he will likely be on a snap count. James Washington needs to step up with the increased reps he’ll have.

In Washington’s defense, it’s not his fault that he hasn’t had a ton of snaps- the Steelers don’t use him enough. He has the best set of hands on the team, he is their best deep threat, and is always counted on to make the contested catch when the Steelers need it most (i.e. vs Baltimore last season).

While there are rumors floating around that Washington requested a trade, this is his time to show Pittsburgh his true value to the offense. He’s no stranger to doing it against the Bengals, either. He had a 79-yard touchdown in Cincinnati in 2019 that helped the Steelers get the road victory.

Whether it is turning a reception underneath into extra yardage, or getting a big chunk play downfield, Washington can provide a ton of production to the Steelers pass game — it’s about time they finally start utilizing him.

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