The Pittsburgh Steelers made waves in NFL free agency by signing tight end Donald Parham Jr. to a one-year contract on February 21, 2025. This move comes after the 6’8″ pass-catcher spent the 2024 season on the Denver Broncos practice squad following his release from the Los Angeles Chargers during final roster cuts.
Parham’s journey through professional football has been marked by both promise and adversity. After going undrafted in 2019, the Stetson University product bounced between five organizations before finding his footing with the Chargers from 2020-2023. His most notable moment came during a 2021 concussion scare that left him hospitalized overnight, though he returned to play three seasons with Los Angeles before his release.
Key Career Statistics
| Seasons | Receptions | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2023 | 67 | 764 | 11 |
| Best Season (2021) | 20 | 190 | 3 |
The Steelers are betting on Parham’s unique physical tools – his combination of height (6’8″), vertical leap (38.5 inches), and 4.68-second 40-yard dash time makes him a rare red zone threat. Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator has hinted at using him in specialized packages despite carrying four other tight ends on the roster.
“Parham represents low-risk upside for a team needing explosive plays,” said NFL analyst Brian Baldinger in recent breakdowns of available free agents.
This signing continues Pittsburgh’s trend of acquiring former Chargers players, following their acquisition of linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. last offseason. Parham will wear jersey #89 for the Steelers as they prepare for organized team activities this spring.
