The Miami #Dolphins have traded tight end JONNU SMITH to the Pittsburgh #Steelers
The trade reunites Smith with Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, who gained notoriety in Atlanta running a TE committee with Smith and KYLE PITTS. In his lone season with Atlanta (2023), Jonnu had 50 receptions for 582 yards and 3 TDs in a split time role. Last year Jonnu had his best season by far, amassing 884 yards and 8 touchdowns on 88 receptions.
It’s a great add for AARON RODGERS and the Steelers pass attack with only DK METCALF as a true receiving threat. However, Jonnu is most certainly going to split TE duties with PAT FREIERMUTH. Pat had his best season as a pro last year (65 rec, 653 yards, 7 TDs) and many were expecting a bigger year in 2025. That is not likely to happen now. Both Jonnu and Big Pat are likely to finish in TE2 range, garnering limited upside for the season.
As for Miami, the trade leaves a massive void at TE where currently JULIAN HILL sits atop the depth chart with PHARAOH BROWN also vying for that spot. TANNER CONNER has the most upside as a pass catching tight end so perhaps a deep sleeper option. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Dolphins look to add a TE but if they don’t, the trade is a big boost for JAYLEN WADDLE. Waddle had a disappointing 2024 campaign, failing to log 1000 yards for the first time in his 4 year career. Waddle works best underneath coverage, where Jonnu outshined him last year. The targets & receptions vacated by Jonnu’s departure gives Waddle a massive opportunity especially considering the lack of a reliable TE on the roster to challenge for those targets.
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