The Pittsburgh Steelers completed a high-profile trade that sent Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for Jalen Ramsey, another highly regarded defensive back. Alongside these headline names, tight end Jonnu Smith joined the Steelers, a move that could prove to be the most influential addition for the team this season. Smith’s strong performance last year positioned him among the top five tight ends in the league, and now he is set to bolster an offense in need of a reliable playmaker beyond star receiver DK Metcalf.
Ben Roethlisberger Highlights Smith’s Impact Over Ramsey’s Arrival
Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger emphasized Smith’s value on his Footbahlin podcast, stating,
“Jonnu Smith, to me, that might be the bigger deal,”
and describing him as “a special talent” capable of “really open[ing] up a field.” Roethlisberger noted that Smith is somewhat unique as a wide receiver playing tight end and suggested that Aaron Rodgers, the team’s quarterback, likely welcomes Smith’s presence just as much as Ramsey’s. Roethlisberger believes Smith’s addition is just as significant as the defensive upgrade.
Offense Remains Steelers’ Main Area of Concern
Despite some defensive struggles late last season, the Steelers’ larger challenge lies in their offensive consistency. Their inability to sustain drives and score efficiently put additional pressure on the defense and special teams. The offense, rather than defense, is the primary focus for improvement heading into 2024. The need for a dependable receiver to support DK Metcalf became clear, especially when George Pickens missed key games due to a hamstring injury, during which the offense stalled.
Jonnu Smith Adds Dynamic Receiving Capability
Smith’s arrival addresses the Steelers’ need for a proven weapon. His versatility to stretch the field and create mismatches will help stabilize the offense. In fact, Smith’s projected 2024 numbers for receiving yards and touchdowns would have set new franchise records for the Steelers. His reunion with Arthur Smith, known for effectively utilizing tight ends, also bodes well since they share a history from previous teams.
Strengthening Steelers’ Offensive Personnel Group
With Jonnu Smith joining Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, the Steelers now boast one of the most formidable three-tight end combinations (13 personnel) in the league. This group could be a crucial factor in making the offense more competitive against top-level AFC opponents. Smith’s addition might be the critical missing piece to elevate Pittsburgh’s offense and help the team contend on a higher level than the defensive swap of Fitzpatrick for Ramsey suggests.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where did Jonnu Smith go?
A. On the last day of June, the Miami Dolphins executed a significant trade. They sent Jalen Ramsey, a cornerback, and Jonnu Smith, a tight end, to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In return, they received Minkah Fitzpatrick, a safety.
Q. Is Jonnu Smith a good blocker?
A. Drafted by the Titans in the third round in 2017 from Florida International, this Philadelphia-born player is an athletic tight end. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 248 pounds, he can block well, particularly in zone schemes that use his athletic skills. Additionally, he poses a challenge for opposing defenses due to his versatile abilities.