Versatile Steelers Tight End Goes Down At Camp

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end DJ Thomas-Jones’ NFL debut may have to wait a year.

The undrafted rookie went down in visible pain during Sunday’s practice at Saint Vincent College, and team sources fear he suffered a torn Achilles — a season-ending injury if confirmed. The injury was first reported by Nick Farabaugh of PennLive.

He writes that Thomas-Jones was helped off the field and carted away after trainers examined his lower left leg. Head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters the injury “looked significant” and that the team is still awaiting further evaluation.

The rookie had been making a strong impression at Steelers training camp. Given his unique skill set that includes soft hands and blocking ability, the Steelers had hoped to deploy Thomas-Jones in a variety of alignments, including in-line tight end and wing.

The former South Alabama standout was also known for his physicality and toughness. After transferring from Ole Miss, he caught 73 passes for 653 yards and 12 touchdowns over three seasons with the Jaguars. Coaches leaned on him for the “dirty work” and teammates honored him with a homemade plaque that dubbed him “first-team all-violence,” according to Farabaugh.

In a recent conversation with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, Thomas-Jones was seen as a key chess piece in Pittsburgh’s evolving offense. He had been rotating behind veterans Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington and Jonnu Smith with reps also going to Connor Heyward and JJ Galbreath.

Sunday’s injury now throws that rotation into flux and deals a brutal blow to one of the Steelers’ most versatile young hopefuls.

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