Steelers’ Playoff Hopes Jeopardized as Star TE Donald Parham Jr. Suffers Devastating ACL Tear

The Steelers’ tight end situation just took a hit that no one saw coming — Donald Parham Jr., a seasoned player who recently joined their ranks, tore his ACL during Tuesday’s OTA. This injury isn’t just bad news; it reshapes the entire roster strategy for Pittsburgh as Parham will be sidelined for the entire 2025 season. After a winding journey from Stetson’s undrafted ranks, through stints in the XFL and the Chargers, Parham had quietly built a solid resume with 67 receptions, 764 yards, and 11 touchdowns in L.A. Now, with him out, the Steelers are left juggling Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and J.J. Galbreath — a trio with potential, but maybe not enough depth heading into the new season. Naturally, this opens the door wider for a trade pursuit — specifically for Dolphins’ tight end Jonnu Smith, who could be the missing piece Pittsburgh desperately needs. The ripple effect of Parham’s injury has just given the Steelers even more motive to make a move. LEARN MORE

Parham will now miss the 2025 season. The Steelers have three other tight ends on the roster — Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and J.J. Galbreath.Undrafted out of Stetson in 2019, Parham spent offseason time in Detroit and Washington. He parlayed a brief 2020 stint with the XFL into an opportunity with the Chargers. He spent four years in L.A., catching 67 passes for 764 yards and 11 touchdowns.Via Adam Schefter of ESPN.com, veteran tight end Donald Parham Jr. suffered a torn ACL during Tuesday’s OTA session.Parham signed with the Steelers earlier this year, after spending all of the 2024 season on the Broncos’ practice squad.The Steelers now have even more reason to try to trade for Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith.