The Pittsburgh Steelers have shown interest in acquiring Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, a move reported by ESPN following Pittsburgh’s recent trade of George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. Smith, who was Miami’s only Pro Bowl selection last season, is looking to renegotiate his contract, currently set at $4.8 million for the upcoming year. He is in the final year of a two-year, $8.4 million deal signed in March 2024 and reportedly prefers to remain with the Dolphins under revised terms.
Smith, who turned 30 in August, has a notable connection with Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, as they previously worked together during their time with the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons. In 2020, Smith recorded a career-high eight touchdowns, and in his lone season with the Falcons, he achieved personal bests with 50 receptions and 582 yards. Last year with the Dolphins, Smith delivered his best performance yet, catching 88 passes for 884 yards and matching his career-best eight touchdowns, setting franchise records for a tight end in receptions, targets, and touchdowns.
While the Steelers currently have Pat Freiermuth as a starting tight end, Jonnu Smith’s potential fit into Arthur Smith’s offense—which heavily utilizes tight ends—could bring a fresh dynamic to the team. Alongside the potential addition of Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf and promising rookies like Caleb Johnson, the Steelers appear to be reshaping their offense. Additionally, the Steelers are reportedly aiming to sign quarterback Aaron Rodgers as OTAs concluded.
Fan Take: This potential acquisition signals the Steelers’ commitment to bolstering their offense with proven talent and strategic synergy between player and coach. NFL fans should watch closely, as this move could reinvigorate the Steelers’ passing game and influence the competitive balance in the AFC.
