Ty Washington Embracing “Tight End U” Standard Ahead of Senior Season at Notre Dame
A year ago, Ty Washington already had a connection with Notre Dame offensive coordinator and tight ends coach Mike Denbrock.
The two built a strong relationship during Denbrock’s time recruiting Washington to Cincinnati, but beyond that familiarity, the 6-foot-4, 247-pound tight end didn’t know much about Notre Dame.
That didn’t last long.
Washington quickly came to understand the significance of the position he plays and the standard that comes with it.
“Coming into it, I really didn’t know much about it, but then you learn the history while you’re here,” said Washington. “That’s like something you’ve got to step up to the plate about.
“All the tight ends getting drafted who have been the starter that’s been here, that’s something that you need to step up to the plate and keep the tradition going. I think that’s a tradition that’s going to keep going for a long, long time.”
Last fall, Washington appeared in 12 games, recording five receptions for 34 yards and a touchdown.
The limited production wasn’t unexpected with Eli Raridon entrenched as the starter, but heading into his senior season, Washington is ready to prove he deserves a larger role in Denbrock’s offense.
“I think everything's going to come along,” Washington stated. “It might not go your way right now. Everything's going to come along and everything's going to happen how it needs to happen regardless of the fact.”
That opportunity won’t be handed to him.
Washington understands his role will expand only if he proves he can handle it, which is something the entire tight end room is focused on this spring as Denbrock looks to feature the position more.
“I think he wants to put the tight ends on display more,” explained Washington. “That's what I'm working on to be one of the guys that he can display more and help the tight end room because this is Tight End U. You've got to be able to do more. That's what I want to do.”
How does Washington prove he’s ready for more?
It starts with showing he can be a complete tight end.
“Everything can improve,” Washington said. “Nothing's perfect. It's always something you could tweak. I think I'm a great route runner, but it can always get a notch higher. Blocking, always something to improve on.”
As one of the veterans in a young tight end room, Washington is also embracing a leadership role, even if it doesn’t come with a lot of words.
“I think some people try to lead by being vocal and stuff,” stated Washington. “I just lead by example. Some of the guys just follow because it's just what I do. That's the way I try to lead the room.”
Washington does feel comfortable taking on a leadership role, as he’s familiar with Notre Dame and the program's expectations, entering year two.
“It's really just leading, but I can always perfect my craft,” stated Washington. “I'm basically trying to get better. Tomorrow I'm going to try to get better than myself today. That's all I can do to -- try to strive forward. Everybody else has got to come along.”
As far as team expectations for 2026, Washington and his teammates haven’t forgotten the feeling they had in December.
“Very motivated,” said Washington. “We’re going by the motto, ‘Leave No Doubt.’ Everybody is ready to just get back out there and I feel sorry for the competition, to be honest.”
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