Jonnu Smith’s Journey: From Free Agency to Miami Dolphins and Potential Trade Scenarios
After an impressive 2023 season with the Falcons in Atlanta, tight end Jonnu Smith entered free agency and immediately attracted interest from numerous NFL franchises. Notably, the Miami Dolphins signed Smith to a two-year contract that can reach as much as $10 million as the team sought to strengthen the tight end position.
In the 2024 NFL season, Jonnu Smith played 17 games with the Miami Dolphins. He made 88 receptions for 884 yards with a 10.0-yard per reception average and 8 touchdowns. His impressive play earned him his first Pro Bowl selection.
In spite of the addition to the Dolphins, there have been rumors of trade talks with regards to Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, and the Los Angeles Chargers.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Reuniting with Arthur Smith
The new offensive coordinator for the Steelers, Arthur Smith, has also coached Jonnu Smith in their stint with the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons. The familiarity with one another from the past may cause Smith to become a priority signing for the team, especially with the team needing more offensive flexibility.
Seattle Seahawks: Strengthening the Tight End Position
The Seahawks have sought to fortify their tight end corps. Having Jonnu Smith would provide the Seahawks with a reliable pass-catching threat, complementing their current offensive threats and adding quarterback Geno Smith another target in the passing game
Los Angeles Chargers: Adding Depth and Experience
In the wake of tight end Gerald Everett’s departure, the Chargers need veteran depth in the tight end position. Jonnu Smith’s proven track record and well-rounded ability would make a good investment in the Los Angeles Chargers’ offense as he would provide quarterback Justin Herbert with a trusted target.
Mock Trade Proposals
- Steelers-Dolphins Trade:
- Steelers receive: Jonnu Smith
- Dolphins receive: 2026 4th-round pick
- Rationale: Reuniting Smith with Arthur Smith could enhance Pittsburgh’s offensive schemes, while Miami gains draft capital.
- Steelers receive: Jonnu Smith
- Seahawks-Dolphins Trade:
- Seahawks receive: Jonnu Smith
- Dolphins receive: 2026 5th-round pick
- Rationale: Seattle addresses their tight end needs, and Miami offloads salary while acquiring a draft asset.
- Seahawks receive: Jonnu Smith
- Chargers-Dolphins Trade:
- Chargers receive: Jonnu Smith
- Dolphins receive: 2026 4th-round pick, 2027 5th-round pick
- Rationale: Los Angeles fills the void left by Everett’s departure, and Miami continues to build for the future.
- Chargers receive: Jonnu Smith
While the new contract of Jonnu Smith with the Dolphins suggests they want to integrate him in their offense, the nature of the NFL is such that there is always the possibility of a trade as well. Those franchises aspiring to strengthen their tight end position might look to Smith as a target of interest.
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