The Carolina Panthers are considering a trade to acquire Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins, aiming to enhance their offense and support rookie quarterback Bryce Young. This move could address significant concerns at the tight end position as the team prepares for the upcoming NFL season.
With tight end depth in question due to injuries and unproven talent, the Panthers see Smith as a key addition that could provide experience and reliability, vital for their offensive game plan.
Current Challenges at the Tight End Position
The Panthers face uncertainty in their tight end lineup, highlighted by a recent back surgery to one player, which clouds his participation prospects. Additionally, Ja’Tavion Sanders’s inconsistent availability and rookie Mitchell Evans’s lack of proven NFL production add to the instability. These factors have created an urgent need for a dependable playmaker like Jonnu Smith to secure this critical role.
Jonnu Smith’s Proven NFL Impact
Jonnu Smith enters this potential trade following a career-best season, where he recorded 88 receptions, 884 yards, and eight touchdowns. His performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, establishing his status among the league‘s top tight ends. As Smith is approaching a contract year, the timing could favor the Panthers in negotiating a trade and a new deal that benefits both sides.
How Smith Could Boost Bryce Young’s Development
For Bryce Young, who is still adjusting to the NFL’s demands in his rookie year, adding a seasoned tight end like Smith would be a significant advantage. Alongside established pass-catchers Adam Thielen, Xavier Legette, and Tetairoa McMillan, Smith’s skill set would diversify the Panthers’ offensive weapons, potentially increasing Young’s effectiveness and confidence on the field.
Trade Possibilities and Market Competition
Though teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, and Los Angeles Chargers have expressed interest in Jonnu Smith, the Panthers could have a competitive edge in landing him. Offering a third-day draft pick appears to be a reasonable cost to acquire a player with Smith’s caliber and experience. Such a strategic acquisition would reaffirm Carolina’s dedication to building a solid support system around Bryce Young.
Potential Impact on the Panthers’ Season
If the Panthers follow through on acquiring Jonnu Smith, this decision may redefine their offensive outlook by turning the tight end position into a reliable strength. This enhancement could accelerate Bryce Young’s growth and improve the team’s performance as a whole. Moving forward, the Panthers’ willingness to invest in proven talent like Smith signals their serious intent to compete and evolve into a more formidable force in the NFL.