The Miami Dolphins made significant offseason moves by trading Jonnu Smith and Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for draft picks and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. With Fitzpatrick returning to Miami, the team now faces the urgent task of finding a new tight end to fill the void left by Smith before the 2025 season begins. The key to Miami’s offense remains quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s health, making it essential to surround him with dependable offensive targets.
Evaluating Cole Kmet as a Potential Tight End for Miami
After Smith’s departure, Miami signed veteran Darren Waller, who returned from retirement following a difficult last season with the New York Giants. However, doubts about Waller’s ability to regain his previous form have prompted Miami to consider other options. One potential candidate is Cole Kmet of the Chicago Bears, who has been their starting tight end for five years but might soon see his role reduced.
Chicago’s recent first-round selection of Colston Loveland, intended to take over the starting tight end position immediately, could make Kmet available for trade. At 26 years old, Kmet still has three years left on his contract, and trade discussions have begun as Miami explores alternatives.
Kmet started all 17 games last season but finished with just 47 receptions for 474 yards and four touchdowns. With Loveland poised to command a significant target share, Kmet, still just 26, could slide further down the pecking order and become a tradable asset given he has three years of team control remaining.
—Brandon Austin, Analyst
Possible Trade Details and Benefits for Both Miami and Chicago
Reports suggest that Miami would likely offer a third-round draft pick to the Bears in exchange for Cole Kmet. Although Kmet has not reached 1,000 receiving yards in a season, Miami’s offense, which favors run-pass options and short to intermediate routes, could enhance his production.
In 2024, Kmet’s 474 receiving yards and four touchdowns reflected a limited connection with Chicago’s quarterback, Caleb Williams. With new Bears coach Ben Johnson emphasizing rookie Colston Loveland’s role, Kmet could move further down Chicago’s depth chart, making a trade appealing for both sides.
Financially, the trade is manageable. Kmet agreed to a four-year, $50 million contract extension in 2023, with nearly $33 million guaranteed. Chicago would not face major salary cap complications by trading him, and Miami could evaluate Kmet without a long-term commitment if he fails to meet expectations.
This potential deal offers a practical solution for Miami to secure a proven tight end while allowing Chicago to develop their first-round rookie fully. The timing during training camp increases the likelihood of such a mutually beneficial trade occurring.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where did Jonnu Smith go?
A. On the final day of June, the Miami Dolphins executed a significant trade. They exchanged cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In return, they received safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Q. Is Jonnu Smith a good blocker?
A. Smith might not be the ideal tight end for Miami’s team since coaches notice room for improvement in his blocking skills. However, he remains their top option. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa greatly admires and supports Smith. It would be unwise for Miami and Smith to part ways before the 2025 season.