The Pittsburgh Steelers came out with a Week 1 win, beating the Atlanta Falcons 20-13. Their offense still sputtered, though, despite major upgrades this offseason. Aaron Rodgers looked good, but some of the pieces around him made errors in big spots. However, one player who answered the call when asked to was Darnell Washington, and former Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes wants Pittsburgh to get Washington more involved going forward

“We’ve also gotta get Darnell in the game,” Holmes said Tuesday on the Footbahlin’ with Ben Roethlisberger podcast. “Those little quick passes out, those little dump-offs… Give him a couple plays to make some noise and have fun playing the game.”

Washington played 44 of a possible 68 snaps against the Falcons. It wasn’t like he took a backseat to Pat Freiermuth, who played 49 snaps. The distribution is about 50/50 between them, and that’s reflected in the Steelers’ depth chart, where they’re both listed as starters.

Still, Washington didn’t have much of a presence in that game. He was targeted only twice and caught both passes, finishing with 18 yards. Of the Steelers who recorded at least one catch, Washington had the fewest targets.

However, he made the most of his opportunities. Washington’s second catch came on the Steelers’ final drive. They led, but they needed to bleed the clock. They faced a critical 3rd-and-3 at their own 29-yard line with just over two minutes left. The Steelers needed that first down, and they called upon Washington, who made a big play to pick up 15 yards.

If not for that moment, Washington would’ve had a quiet Week 1. Instead, he showed just why the Steelers gave him a contract extension this offseason.

Rodgers hasn’t been shy about praising Washington. He’s formed a solid connection with the tight end going back to last year. Despite Washington’s quieter Week 1 performance, there’s no need to worry yet. They still utilized him in one of the biggest moments of the game. Washington will likely get plenty of work this year, and Holmes should get his wish.