Steelers TE Donald Parham Tears Achilles, Misses 2025 Season

Donald Parham Jr., who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, suffered a torn Achilles during OTAs and is expected to miss the entire 2025 NFL season. Parham, a veteran tight end who spent four years with the Los Angeles Chargers and logged a career-high 27 catches for 285 yards and four touchdowns last year, was set to provide depth behind starter Pat Freiermuth. With Parham sidelined, the Steelers' tight end depth is significantly impacted, renewing their interest in trading for Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, who had a breakout season and Pro Bowl nod in 2024. The Steelers currently have Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and Connor Heyward or J.J. Galbreath as remaining tight end options. Parham's injury adds to the team's uncertainties this offseason, which also includes awaiting quarterback Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether he will join the Steelers or retire. The Steelers finished 10-7 last season but lost in the first playoff round for the fourth consecutive year.