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The Pittsburgh Steelers' optimism around bolstering their tight end depth took a major hit Tuesday when Donald Parham Jr. suffered a torn Achilles during ,OTAs likely ending his 2025 season before it even began.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Parham went down in practice with what's being described as a "brutal injury." It's a tough break for the veteran, who had ed Pittsburgh in February after spending 2024 on the Broncos' practice squad, and who previously stood out with the Chargers, totaling 67 catches, 764 yards, and 11 touchdowns.
Parham was brought in by head coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who is known for utilizing tight ends extensively in his offensive schemes. The move was seen as a response to the free agency departure of MyCole Pruitt, and as a way to add depth behind starter Pat Freiermuth.
Now, with Parham out, that depth is in jeopardy. Freiermuth remains the lead option, with Darnell Washington and Connor Heyward behind him. Beyond that, the tight end room is thin, and the Steelers are already scrambling for solutions.
Jonnu Smith Interest is Back Again
In the wake of Parham's injury, the Steelers have reportedly renewed talks with veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, per Schefter. Smith, who had a career-best season in 2024 with the Miami Dolphins, tallying 88 receptions, 884 yards, and 8 touchdowns, is seeking a new contract reportedly worth $4.8 million.
Smith's familiarity with Arthur Smith from their time together in Atlanta and Tennessee could make him an ideal plug-and-play solution in Pittsburgh. His arrival would immediately elevate the unit and provide stability for an offense still trying to find its identity.
Tight End Troubles Add to Steelers' Offseason Turmoil
The loss of Parham only adds to a growing list of concerns for Mike Tomlin. The Steelers have already endured a tumultuous quarterback saga. After g Russell Wilson in free agency and trading for Justin Fields, early-season injuries led to Fields starting the first six games and delivering a 4-2 record.
But once Wilson recovered, Tomlin controversially handed him back the starting role, a decision that created division within the locker room. According to NFL reporter Albert Breer on The Bill Simmons Show, much of the Steelers organization preferred sticking with Fields. Breer noted, "Tomlin was kind of all on his own on that one."
Ultimately, the decision backfired. Wilson struggled late in the season, and the Steelers suffered five straight losses, including a wild-card playoff exit. Both quarterbacks are now gone. Wilson and Fields have since moved on to New York teams, but the locker room tension lingers.
With tight end depth in crisis and quarterback uncertainty still casting a shadow, the Steelers face critical decisions this offseason. If Jonnu Smith s, he could help stabilize a unit that now feels like it's on shaky ground. But the loss of Donald Parham Jr. is a stark reminder of how quickly plans can fall apart in the NFL, especially before training camp even begins.