The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t going to wait until the start of free agency to make some moves.
On Friday afternoon, the Steelers signed veteran tight end Donald Parham to a one-year deal. The 28-year-old from Stetson just spent the 2024 season on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad.
Parham started his NFL career in 2019, spending time on both the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders. In 2020, he was selected by the Arlington Renegades in the ninth round of the XFL Draft. He made an immediate impact in the XFL, hauling in five passes for 76 yards and a touchdown in just his second game.
After earning Mid-Season All-XFL honors, Parham signed a deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. During the 2020 NFL season, he had 10 catches for 159 yards and three touchdowns.
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – SEPTEMBER 22: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on prior to a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Acrisure Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Joe Sargent/Getty Images
Parham actually had 764 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns during his time in Los Angeles. He was a respectable red-zone target for Justin Herbert. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to crack their 2024 roster under Jim Harbaugh.
There’s no guarantee Parham will make an impact in Pittsburgh, but he’ll bring plenty of height to the team’s tight end room. At 6-foot-8, he’s an absolute weapon.
The Steelers currently have Pat Freiermuth as their starting tight end. Former third-round pick Darnell Washington is the No. 2 option on the depth chart.
It’s possible Parham will push Washington throughout OTAs and training camp. If so, that’d be a good thing for the Steelers. You can never have enough weapons in the NFL.
