{"id":59329,"date":"2025-06-29T08:02:56","date_gmt":"2025-06-29T08:02:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usatoday.azontree.com\/?p=59329"},"modified":"2025-06-29T08:02:56","modified_gmt":"2025-06-29T08:02:56","slug":"pro-bowl-tight-end-shipped-out-of-miami-for-surprisingly-little-%f0%9f%91%87%f0%9f%8f%bb-%f0%9f%91%87%f0%9f%8f%bb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usatoday.azontree.com\/?p=59329","title":{"rendered":"Pro Bowl Tight End Shipped Out of Miami for Surprisingly Little \ud83d\udc47\ud83c\udffb \ud83d\udc47\ud83c\udffb"},"content":{"rendered":"
In a strategic offseason shake-up, the Miami Dolphins are poised to trade Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers, signaling a shift towards youthful roster development.<\/div>\n
\n
<\/p>\n
IMAGE: Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) runs with the ball while being pursued by New York Jets cornerback Isaiah Oliver (23) during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. \/ Ed Mulholland \/ Imagn Images<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n

The Miami Dolphins are staring down a pivotal offseason where key decisions could define their future. As they grapple with roster strategy and long-term plans, all eyes are on a potential trade involving Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith, with the Pittsburgh Steelers emerging as a frontrunner to secure his talents.<\/p>\n

Miami’s Offseason Challenges<\/h3>\n

As the Dolphins wrap up their offseason activities, including the final OTAs and minicamp, the front office faces significant decisions. Jalen Ramsey\u2019s future is a primary concern.<\/p>\n

His $21 million fully guaranteed salary makes any trade for him complicated, especially when looking to get equal value in return. By designating Xavien Howard as a post-June 1 cut, Miami managed to clear $18 million in cap space, offering breathing room to address key roster needs.<\/p>\n

However, depth remains a concern\u2014especially along the offensive line and in the secondary\u2014as the team prepares for the 2025 season.<\/p>\n

Jonnu Smith’s Stellar Season<\/h3>\n

Jonnu Smith shined in 2024, putting up a season that turned heads across the league. He played all 17 games, catching 88 passes for 884 yards and 8 touchdowns, placing him among the elite tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, and tied for second in touchdowns.<\/p>\n

Operating within a Dolphins system focused on quick passes, Smith thrived no matter who took the snaps under center. His standout performance not only earned him a Pro Bowl nod but also boosted his value, leading him to seek a contract extension.<\/p>\n

When those talks hit a stalemate, the Dolphins began exploring trade opportunities, with the Steelers showing the most interest.<\/p>\n

Steelers’ Opportunity<\/h3>\n

The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves well-positioned financially, ranking seventh in the league for cap space. This gives them the flexibility to bring in a seasoned veteran like Jonnu Smith, even after tying Pat Freiermuth to a four-year, $48.4 million extension.<\/p>\n

While Freiermuth had a solid 2024 season with 65 catches for 653 yards and 7 touchdowns, Smith offers the Steelers a chance to innovate. A two-tight-end set could amplify their offensive versatility and red-zone potency.<\/p>\n

Trade Proposal on the Table<\/h3>\n

The proposed idea is straightforward:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Steelers receive: Jonnu Smith<\/li>\n
  • Dolphins receive: 2026 third-round pick<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    While Freiermuth might seem like a viable trade piece, his long-term contract through 2028 likely keeps Miami at bay. Instead, a third-round pick grants the Dolphins flexibility without the baggage of future cap entanglements.<\/p>\n

    Miami’s Strategic Shift<\/h3>\n

    Offloading Smith aligns with Miami\u2019s strategy of embracing youth. They’ve already allowed veteran running back Raheem Mostert to walk in free agency and watched left tackle Terron Armstead retire.<\/p>\n

    As 31-year-old standout Tyreek Hill approaches the twilight of his prime, Miami looks to the future. In head coach Mike McDaniel\u2019s offense, speed and field spacing take precedence over a tight end-heavy scheme.<\/p>\n

    Despite Smith\u2019s prowess, Miami thrived in 2023 without significant production from tight ends, evident with Durham Smythe\u2019s modest 366 receiving yards.<\/p>\n

    A Smart Move for Pittsburgh<\/h3>\n

    Pittsburgh is in a strong position, holding seven picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, not counting compensatory picks. While GM Omar Khan might be wary of sacrificing future assets, acquiring a Pro Bowl-caliber tight end like Smith at the height of his game represents a calculated risk well worth taking.<\/p>\n

    Conclusion<\/h3>\n

    Trading Jonnu Smith could provide the Dolphins with valuable draft capital and financial agility, helping them navigate a youth-centered transition. Conversely, the Steelers can seize an opportunity to elevate their offense with a proven playmaker. As both teams stand at critical junctures, this trade is strategically sound and mutually beneficial.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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