The Los Angeles Chargers had a few needs they were expected to address this offseason. Among them was adding some depth at the tight end position. Los Angeles was widely expected to select one in the 2023 NFL Draft after not signing one in free agency.
But, the draft came and went and not a single tight end was added to the roster. A reason for that occurring was likely the presence of Donald Parham Jr. on the roster. Head coach Brandon Staley spoke highly about Parham around draft time, expressing a lot of confidence in him.
A concussion and nagging hamstring injury has derailed Parham the last two seasons. But, Staley is excited to have him back in the mix after he agreed to a two-year, $2.5 million deal in free agency in March.
“He didn’t get a chance to show himself last year, but we think that that guy’s a weapon,” Staley said. “In 2021, one of the reasons why we were such a prolific offense was because of the role that he had in it. We’re excited to get him back.”
Healthy and able to participate in some of the Chargers’ offseason activities this year, Parham has been a standout performer. His skills really flashed during the team’s 7-on-7 drills during the two-day minicamp.
The highlight of those practices? A deep touchdown pass from Justin Herbert that Parham hauled in according to Lindsey Thiry of ESPN. It was something that caught the eye of Herbert, who has been impressed by Parham’s performance.
“He moves so well for his height,” Herbert said of the 6-foot-8 Parham. “He’s been able to make plays over the past couple of years. It’s always a bonus for your team when he’s out on the field. His catch radius is huge.”
With starting tight end Gerald Everett entering the final season on his contract, there is a chance for Parham to carve out a role not only in 2023 but beyond. If he can beat out 2021 third-round pick Tre’ McKitty and Stone Smartt, a role is open behind Everett to seize.
Possessing intimidating size, standing 6’8”, Parham can be utilized as a jump ball weapon in the Chargers’ offense. If he can stay healthy, he is someone that Staley sounds like he wants to get more involved in the upcoming season.
