Recent reports suggested that the Miami Dolphins engaged in trade talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers regarding tight end Jonnu Smith, who is seeking a revised contract. However, these Jonnu Smith Steelers trade rumors update have been firmly denied by Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly, who insists the team is not interested in acquiring Smith.

Steelers Clarify Position on Jonnu Smith Trade Speculation

Mark Kaboly dismissed the rumors connecting Jonnu Smith to the Steelers, explaining that while the prospect of a trade may seem plausible due to offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s previous coaching relationship with Jonnu Smith, the Steelers have no intention of pursuing this move. Kaboly cautioned fans against trusting certain social media reports.

The Steelers aren’t interested at all,

Kaboly said, per Andrew Fillipponi.

Expanding on the situation via X, Kaboly stated,

Don’t always believe what’s on Twitter. It was reported that the Steelers are interested in Miami tight end Jonnu Smith via a trade. Omar Khan has said on multiple occasions that he can’t believe the amount of fake news out there. I may have to file that Smith interest under that category, even though the connections with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who coached Smith at Tennessee and Atlanta and is a big fan of his play, bring some believability to it all. Forget that the Steelers already have a legitimate TE1 in Freiermuth, but the way Darnell Washington has asserted himself in the passing game through three offseason practices can’t be dismissed,

Kaboly wrote.

Contract Situation and Player Preferences Affect Trade Prospects

Jonnu Smith is currently seeking to restructure his contract, which is set to pay him $4.8 million in 2025. Reports indicate that Smith would prefer to remain with the Dolphins if a reworked deal can be reached. Smith has reportedly been absent from voluntary workouts as negotiations continue.

Relevant Background on Jonnu Smith and Past Trade Activity

If a trade to the Steelers were to occur, it would mark the second time that a team led by Arthur Smith, the Steelers’ offensive coordinator, has traded for Jonnu Smith. Arthur Smith was head coach of the Atlanta Falcons when they acquired Smith in 2023.

At 29 years old, Smith was drafted in the third round by the Tennessee Titans in 2017. He completed the final year of a four-year, $3.175 million contract before signing a four-year, $50 million contract with the New England Patriots that included $31.25 million guaranteed. The Patriots then traded Smith to the Falcons for a 2023 seventh-round pick. After the Falcons released him in the offseason, Smith signed a two-year, $8.4 million contract with the Dolphins.

Recent Performance Highlights of Jonnu Smith

In the 2024 season, Smith appeared in all 17 games for Miami, catching 88 passes for 884 yards and scoring eight touchdowns. His productivity remains notable despite the ongoing contract discussions.

Significance of the Steelers’ Decision and What Lies Ahead

The Steelers’ clear rejection of Jonnu Smith trade rumors confirms their commitment to existing players, including tight end Pat Freiermuth and the emerging Darnell Washington, who has impressed during offseason practices. This stance also underlines the team’s intent to avoid entering a negotiation complicated by Smith’s contract demands and the preference of the Dolphins to retain him.

As trade speculation continues across the NFL, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether Smith resolves his contract situation with Miami or if other teams might engage in talks. For now, the Steelers have officially closed the door on any potential trade involving Jonnu Smith.