The Pittsburgh Steelers have recently engaged in talks concerning the possible acquisition of Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith. These discussions have intensified as Smith seeks a revised contract following his first Pro Bowl selection last season, making the Steelers a notable contender in the Jonnu Smith Steelers Dolphins trade talks.
Sources from ESPN, including reporter Adam Schefter, indicate that Smith prefers to remain with the Dolphins under new contract terms. This development opened the door for Miami to consider trade options involving the standout tight end.
Personal and Coaching Ties Strengthen Steelers’ Interest
The Steelers’ pursuit of Smith is influenced by his existing relationship with Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Arthur served as Jonnu’s tight ends coach and offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans from 2017 to 2020, and later as his head coach with the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. Field Yates of ESPN highlighted this bond, observing that Arthur Smith “loves” Jonnu Smith.
Jonnu Smith, nearing 30 years old, signed a two-year, $8.4 million deal with Miami in the previous offseason. His breakout year with the Dolphins marked a career-best performance as he became a critical component of the offense, particularly amid struggles and injuries among wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Smith’s Impact on Miami’s Offense Last Season
Smith emerged as a favorite target for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, leading Miami in receptions with 88 catches and scoring eight touchdowns. He ranked second on the team for receiving yards, totaling 884, all personal records indicating a significant role in the team’s offense last year.
Since being drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Florida International University, Smith has shown periods of strong performance, including a 2019 season with the Tennessee Titans where he notched nine total touchdowns. His subsequent four-year contract with the New England Patriots highlighted high expectations. However, Smith struggled to replicate that success there, amassing under 600 receiving yards and only one touchdown across two seasons before a trade sent him to the Falcons.
During his time with Atlanta, under coach Arthur Smith, Jonnu revitalized his career by posting 50 receptions for 582 yards and three touchdowns in the 2023 season.
Steelers’ Current Offensive Situation and Potential Fit
Although Pittsburgh’s tight end position appears secure with Pat Freiermuth, the 2021 second-round pick who enjoyed a breakout year in 2024 with 65 receptions, 653 yards, and seven touchdowns, the team faces challenges elsewhere. The Steelers recently traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, creating a gap in their offensive weapons beyond the dependable WR1, DK Metcalf, and Freiermuth.
Bringing in Jonnu Smith would add needed explosiveness and playmaking ability to the Steelers’ passing game. Yet, questions remain about whether the Dolphins are truly ready to part ways with a player who had such a positive impact last season.
Implications of the Ongoing Trade Dialogue
The unfolding Jonnu Smith Steelers Dolphins trade talks highlight both teams’ strategic priorities heading into the new season. Miami’s willingness to renegotiate contracts and consider trades signals a dynamic approach to roster management. For the Steelers, acquiring Smith could bolster an offense that recently lost key talent and seeks to maintain competitive edge.
The outcome of these discussions will likely influence each team’s offensive potency and roster composition in the near term, with contract negotiations playing a pivotal role in determining Smith’s future destination.