Overview

• Donald Parham Jr. suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the Steelers’ OTAs, an injury that typically requires nine to 12 months of recovery and will sideline him for the 2025 season.
• Parham, 27, joined Pittsburgh as a free agent after four seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers and a year on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad, and he posted career highs in 2023 with 27 receptions, 285 yards and four touchdowns.
• Pittsburgh enters the season with Pat Freiermuth as its starter at tight end and has seen second-year player Darnell Washington earn praise for increased speed and agility in offseason workouts.
• The team has reportedly renewed trade talks with the Miami Dolphins regarding tight end Jonnu Smith, who has a previous working relationship with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
• Parham’s season-ending injury leaves a void in the tight end rotation that could prompt further roster moves before training camp.