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A TE of Steelers Suffers Devastating Achilles Injury at Training Camp – Dreams Put on Hold

Just days into Steelers training camp, heartbreak struck for rookie tight end D.J. Thomas-Jones. The undrafted free agent who had just started to turn heads is now feared to have suffered a torn Achilles, potentially ending his season before it truly began.

Steelers rookie DJ Thomas-Jones takes care of his mother off the field, but  is 'first team all-violence' on it | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

During Sunday’s practice, Thomas-Jones went down clutching his left ankle, unable to put any weight on his leg. Trainers rushed to his side and he was carted off the field, leaving teammates and coaches in shock. According to PennLive’s Nick Farabaugh, the early report is a torn Achilles — an injury dreaded by every athlete.

Nick Farabaugh on X: "Steelers rookie TE/FB DJ Thomas-Jones got injured in  that last team period. Trainers are looking at his left ankle  https://t.co/bbKqubdA6f" / X

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin called the injury “potentially significant,” and as of now, the team has yet to confirm the official diagnosis. If confirmed, Thomas-Jones would become the second Steelers tight end lost for the year with a torn Achilles, after Donald Parham Jr.

Alan Saunders on X: "Rookie TE/FB DJ Thomas-Jones getting some attention  for what looks to be a left ankle/calf injury. https://t.co/zc450a7veW" / X

For D.J. Thomas-Jones, the blow is especially cruel. He entered camp as the top non-quarterback UDFA signing in team history, making a strong impression on the field and in the locker room. Practicing at both fullback and tight end, he was fighting to carve out a roster spot. Now, he faces a long, grueling rehab – and must put his NFL dreams on hold.

This injury also tests Pittsburgh’s depth at the tight end position, as Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith, Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward, and J.J. Galbreath are the remaining healthy options.

Season-Ending Injury Feared for Steelers Tight End - Yahoo Sports

A standout from South Alabama, Thomas-Jones had defied the odds to reach an NFL camp, earning the highest signing bonus for a non-QB undrafted rookie in Steelers history. His versatility and work ethic made him a favorite to make the 53-man roster.

Football can be unforgiving. One moment you’re chasing a dream, the next you’re facing a mountain. Steelers Nation stands behind D.J. Thomas-Jones as he starts his journey back, hoping to see him return stronger than ever.
Wishing D.J. a speedy recovery – your story isn’t over yet!

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Steelers Work Out Saints Superstar 5× Pro Bowler & 2× All-Pro — Pending Medical Evaluation
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – As the New Orleans Saints sink deeper with an 0-4 record through the first four weeks of the 2025 season, trade rumors surrounding star running back Alvin Kamara are heating up more than ever. The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly showing “special” interest in the 30-year-old, with reports indicating they are preparing a major offer that includes arranging a medical evaluation to assess Kamara’s health before moving forward with a deal. This could be a huge boost for a Steelers offense lacking depth at running back due to injuries and Jaylen Warren’s inconsistent performance. The Saints are facing a full-blown crisis, from a porous defense to financial woes with a projected $21.8 million cap deficit in 2026. Kamara, still a central piece of their offense with his elite rushing and receiving skills, could be placed on the trade block in exchange for draft capital—likely a late-round pick or a pick swap. Analysts from FanSided and Steelers Wire highlight Pittsburgh as the “ideal destination” for Kamara, as he could immediately strengthen the Steelers’ backfield and help them contend for the AFC North crown while the Ravens and Bengals battle injuries. Kamara, who signed a contract extension with the Saints in 2024, has never reached 1,000 rushing yards in a single season, but his versatility (hundreds of receiving yards annually) makes him an attractive target for playoff contenders. Under GM Omar Khan, the Steelers have become known for bold moves, and adding Kamara could be a strategic step to support QB Aaron Rodgers and capitalize on weakened divisional rivals. The Steelers’ “special” interest is underscored by their plans to conduct a thorough medical evaluation of Kamara—a standard step in blockbuster trades given his history of injuries, including groin and ankle issues from past seasons. If cleared, Kamara could quickly step in as the Steelers’ lead back and pair with Warren to form a powerful one-two punch. Sources from SI.com and Steelers Wire suggest the deal may only cost a late-round pick, making it very feasible before the trade deadline. However, Kamara has previously expressed his desire to remain with the Saints and even holds a no-trade clause. Still, the team’s disastrous situation could force a change. Other teams such as the Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos have been mentioned, but the Steelers stand out due to their urgent need and track record of pursuing AFC stars. If the deal goes through, the Steelers could strengthen their Super Bowl push with a bolstered offense, while the Saints would gain draft capital to aid their rebuild. Fans on X (Twitter) are buzzing with “blockbuster” trade proposals involving other names like WR Chris Olave, but Kamara remains the most talked-about piece. All eyes are now on the medical evaluation—whether it seals the deal or not, this could become one of the hottest trades of the 2025 season.