James Washington knows what he needs to do to improve – to get a shot playing with a top-flight quarterback in the NFL.
Washington appears ready for that spotlight. He is still refining his game for NFL standards, but he has shown a knack for making catches in traffic. If Washington can beat cornerbacks downfield and make the contested catch, the Steelers might just have their Martavis Bryant replacement.
Washington has soft hands and strong arms to secure the ball through contact. That’s a good place to start, even if coach Mike Tomlin reminded Washington in a recent practice that his footwork should catch up to his hands ability — in other words, get to the spot quicker so the catch is easier.