Getting to know: Steelers cornerback Donald Washington
Get to know ...
Donald Washington
Position: Cornerback
Height/Weight: 6-foot-1, 197 lbs.
Experience: Fourth year
College: Ohio State
Washington is unlike most others vying for a roster spot. He has plenty of experience, having played in the CFL. He earned his way onto the training camp roster with a solid minicamp. The 30-year-old figures he can fit in on special teams, but injuries could alter his thinking. Already, second-year cornerback Senquez Golson suffered a foot injury that could sideline him for much of the season. “I'm an older guy, so I have to understand who I am and where I've come from,” Washington said prior to Wednesday's practice. “I'm a veteran who has experience at multiple positions.”
What will it take to make the active roster? “I try not to think about it too much because it's out of my control. I try to attack this thing day by day and control what I can. It's about attitude and preparation.”
What might be your role? “At this stage, I have to be a leader in the (secondary) room because I'm one of the older guys. I'm new to this defense, so I'm learning as well.”
Have you cleared that first hurdle? “I'm not going through any checkpoints because this is a marathon, and I have to keep on going. I'm not looking at what's going on behind me. I'm just focused on right now.”
How different is the CFL and NFL? “Other than the obvious differences, there are things you have to get used to. But at the end of the day, it's just football.”
