Chargers TE Donald Parham expected to take another step forward

After suffering what could’ve been a career-ending injury when making a diving catch that caused him to be taken on a gurney in Week 15 against the Chiefs, tight end Donald Parham is back on the field like he didn’t lose a step.

While the defense dominated on Day 2 of training camp, Parham’s catch down the field from quarterback Justin Herbert that went for a touchdown, was the highlight on the offensive side of the ball.

“He’s a guy that I think can do a lot more than what we did last year,” offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi said on Parham. “I think his ability to go up and catch the ball and high point it. His size and height differential is something we really want to tap into.”

Parham finished the 2021 season with 20 catches on 27 targets for 190 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games. A mismatch to opposing defenders in the red zone with his 6-foot-8 frame, 20% of Parham’s career receptions have gone for scores.

While he was used primarily as a pass-catcher in 2020, his first season with the Bolts, Parham took significant strides to become a complete player at the position – showing more toughness and blocking ability throughout the year.

“He’s a better blocker than I would’ve thought,” Lombardi said.

Parham will be joined by the newest addition of the tight end group Gerald Everett, who will be the team’s top option at the position, and second-year Tre’ McKitty, who showed plenty of promise as an in-line blocker in his rookie season.

If he stays healthy, Parham should continue to take another step forward and be an integral part of the offense this season, whether it’s threatening the seams, boxing out defenders in the red zone, or sealing blocks.

Story originally appeared on Chargers Wire