Nate Washington - Not Just a Player, But A State of Mind...

No, that subject line doesn't really have anything to do with this post other than the fact that they both concern Nate Washington. So sue me.

But seriously, what I really want to talk about is - Could this be Nate Washington's breakout year with the Steelers?

This article's headline, from yesterday's Tribune-Review, got me thinking - Washington was consistently clutch last season, both as a slot receiver and fill-in starter for Hines Ward, made some great memorable catches, but has thus far kind of been on the fringe of the Steeler offense. Obviously I think we've seen that the talent is there, the speed is there, the hands are almost there. All this combined with Bruce Arians new look offense - wanting to spread out 4 wide, throwing in odd sets and trying a more "modern" offense - just might mean more passes thrown Washington's way. Typically a guy like Washington, who is either a late rounder or undrafted free agent (which Washington was) will need a season or two to really establish himself, so I'm thinking that in this, his third full season with the team, he might just emerge as a thoroughly reliable weapon.

Anyways, I'm just spitballing here, but what do you think? - Will Washington become an even bigger factor? Will he continue to come through in the clutch? Will he grow a sick afro like Polamalu had at USC?