The Pittsburgh Steelers are back in the market. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Steelers have reopened trade discussions with the Miami Dolphins regarding Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith.
The Steelers had previously been linked to Smith, but discussions had died down in recent days. However, a potentially season-ending Achilles injury to Steelers tight end Donald Parham Jr. has reportedly gotten the ball rolling again.
Smith is looking for a new contract following a breakout year for the Dolphins. He signed a two-year, $8.4 million deal last offseason after underwhelming runs with the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons. He put together arguably the best season of his career with the Dolphins in 2024, setting career highs in receptions (88) and receiving yards (884) while matching a career-best with eight touchdown catches.
How can he help the Steelers?
Smith would be a quarterback-friendly addition to a Steelers offense that's still trying to find its way. He's experienced with hard-nosed, run-heavy attacks thanks to his years with New England and the Tennessee Titans, and his ability to provide yards after catch in the short and intermediate passing game would fill an important hole for the Steelers.
Will the Dolphins do business?
Smith is still 29 years old and the Dolphins have him on a bargain contract, so they shouldn't be eager to part with him. Still, it's notable that they appear reluctant to execute an extension. Despite Smith's productive season, the Dolphins struggled on offense last year, finishing 22nd in points scored. It's possible they recognize his target share was inflated by injuries to star wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
If Smith departs in free agency next year after another successful season, the Dolphins could potentially fetch as much as a third or fourth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft thanks to the NFL's compensatory pick formula. At the very least, the Steelers would have to provide a more valuable pick in order to tempt the Dolphins.
Unless Smith is willing to hold out or poison the relationship in some other way, the Dolphins should hold all the cards at the negotiating table. The Steelers would likely have to make a dramatic offer to pry Smith loose. That would include a lucrative extension for Smith and/or a mid-round pick for the Dolphins.
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