Who Should I Start? Donald Parham Jr. or Jake Tonges

Tuesday, June 3, 8:31 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Donald Parham Jr. (Achilles) suffered a torn Achilles tendon on Tuesday and is in danger of missing the entirety of the 2025 season. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the injury. News came through earlier today that the Steelers removed themselves from conversations with the Miami Dolphins for tight end Jonnu Smith, but their tune quickly changed, and now we know why. It's unfortunate news for the 27-year-old, as he's now set for a lengthy recovery process. It's no secret that Pittsburgh has a glaring need at quarterback, though the lack of weapons on the offense is quickly becoming an understated issue. It's unlikely that Parham Jr. would have made a massive impact in 2025. Still, the team's skill players are relatively thin behind wideout DK Metcalf, tight end Pat Freiermuth, and running back Jaylen Warren.

Friday, February 13, 7:21 AM

Heading into the 2025 season, San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges had not recorded a single catch across 20 career NFL games. However, the 26-year-old took advantage of his opportunity in San Francisco, recording 34 receptions for 293 yards and five touchdowns across 17 games played. The majority of Tonges' production came in a five-week stretch from Weeks 2 through 6 when star 49ers tight end George Kittle (Achilles) was sidelined by a hamstring injury. In that span, Tonges hauled in 22 catches for 209 yards and two touchdowns on 31 targets. However, Tonges may see a similar opportunity in 2026, as Kittle suffered a torn Achilles tendon in San Francisco's NFC Wild Card round win over the Philadelphia Eagles and is expected to miss time next season. Tonges is set to hit restricted free agency this spring, but it seems likely that the 49ers prioritize bringing him back, given Kittle's injury situation. In dynasty formats, Tonges may be a tight end to target for his chance at 2026 production and the possibility that he could be the long-term successor to Kittle in San Francisco.