Report: Pittsburgh Steelers TE Donald Parham suffers torn Achilles, likely out for 2025 season

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Donald Parham suffered a torn Achilles during OTAs on Tuesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported. He is likely out for the 2025 season.

Parham signed a one-year contract with the Steelers this offseason after spending four seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers. In 2024, he set career-highs with 27 receptions for 285 yards and four touchdowns before entering free agency.

Parham’s injury comes as trade rumors swirl around the Steelers. ESPN reported Pittsburgh renewed trade talks with the Miami Dolphins about Jonnu Smith on Tuesday after previously speaking about a deal late last month.

Smith is due to make $4.8 million this year with the Dolphins, although the franchise is looking for a potential trade partner. Schefter said the two sides “renewed conversations” Tuesday, just a few hours before news broke of Parham’s injury.

Smith totaled 88 receptions 884 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last year – setting Miami franchise records for a tight end in each category. He and Arthur Smith previously worked together with the Tennessee Titans and in Atlanta with the Falcons, where he set his previous career-highs with 50 receptions for 582 yards, along with three touchdowns.

Steelers have been searching for additional playmaker

Even before Donald Parham’s injury, the Steelers have reportedly been looking for a weapon opposite DK Metcalf. FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported Pittsburgh has spoken with multiple teams about a move and the franchise is “motivated to get a deal done at some point.” However, he noted the amount of time left in the offseason to make such a move.

Metcalf is the clear No. 1 option for Pittsburgh and signed a four-year, $132 million contract after the trade. While questions remain at quarterback amid the pursuit of Aaron Rodgers, the Steelers are still looking to add more weapons to Arthur Smith’s scheme.

Pittsburgh’s offense is sure to take on a new look this year regardless of what happens at quarterback. The Steelers notably added former Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft while also signing Kenneth Gainwell in free agency after Najee Harris left for the Los Angeles Chargers. Johnson and Will Howard were the only offensive players Pittsburgh added in the draft.

Of course, the biggest question remains at quarterback. The Steelers – like the rest of the NFL – are waiting on a final answer from Rodgers on whether he will sign. Mason Rudolph is returning to the franchise after spending last season with the Titans and would likely be in line to start if Rodgers either opts not to sign or chooses to retire.