Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Donald Perham Jr. may have played in the 2025 NFL season after tearing Achilles during the OTAS.
What happened to Donald Perham Jr.?
The Pittsburgh Steelers were hit hard Tuesday when Donald Perham Jr. suffered from Achilles, who was torn apart during Otas.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 27-year-old is expected to miss the entire 2025 NFL season.
Perham signed a one-year, $1.17 million contract with the Steelers earlier this offseason, four seasons after the Los Angeles Chargers. The injury could end Pittsburgh’s tenure before it officially begins.
Donald Perham Achilles’ recovery time
Achilles, torn, usually requires 9-12 months of recovery. So Parham’s 2025 season is almost certainly over. He undergoes surgery and then a lengthy rehabilitation process will follow, hoping to return in time for the 2026 Freedom Agency.
The timing didn’t get worse. Perham had a career-high year with chargers in 2024, hauling him with 27 receptions for 285 yards and four touchdowns.
Steelers Tight End Depth
As Perham watches, the Steelers’ tight end depth chart changes drastically. Last season’s starter Pat Freiermuth remains the most obvious option. The team has Darnell Washington and JJ Galbrace on the roster.
However, Parham’s injuries reportedly reopened the door for Johnne Smith for potential trade with the Miami Dolphins. The talk between the two teams was previously cooled, but came back with each schefter.
Do the Steelers trade Jone Smith?
The Steelers resumed trade debate with Miami in 2024 for tight end Jonusmith, who is finishing his Pro Bowl season.
Smith’s agent Drew Rosenhaus says Miami remains a client’s preferred destination, but the growing need on Pittsburgh’s tight end could lead to an aggressive push to win him.
How will Perham’s injury affect the Steelers’ offense?
Although Perham was not expected to be the center of the attack, he would have been a valuable red zone target and a spinning pass catcher. His loss narrows the team’s options, especially if another tight end is injured.
More importantly, Pittsburgh is still clearly lacking at quarterback. Aaron Rodgers remains signed and the team reportedly awaits his decision. Until then, Mason Rudolph is the estimated starter.
When will the Steelers open the 2025 NFL season?
The Steelers will launch their 2025 campaign on September 7th with the New York Jets, former Aaron Rodgers team.
The playoff caliber’s prolonged uncertainty over defense and offense has made all eyes in the quarterback room, and whether the team can secure another proven pass catcher by week one.
