The Chargers tight end room is highlighted by veteran Jared Cook, but Donald Parham is not to be forgotten.
Signed last year, Parham took advantage of his limited opportunities, as well as the season-ending injury to Virgil Green, recording 10 catches for 159 yards (15.9 yards per reception) and three touchdowns on 20 targets in 2020.
Heading into upcoming season, even with the additions of Cook and rookie Tre’ McKitty, the upside of Parham is endless due to his elite physical and athletic traits coupled with new offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s system.
Lombardi said he liked what he saw from Parham on film last season, and that he’s excited to unlock his potential.
“I saw the same reps that you did,” Lombardi said. “They were limited, but they were impressive. You get in the same room with him and you go, ‘Oh my gosh.’ You don’t see many guys that look like him, with his height and length.”
During the final season that Lombardi called plays for the Lions, QB Matthew Stafford targeted the tight end on nearly 25 percent of his passes. In addition, Saints’ Drew Brees relied heavily on his tight ends.
Expected to be a threat up the seams and in the red zone, the 6-foot-8 Parham could be in for a big season in 2021.