The Miami Dolphins have been linked to potential moves involving several key players this offseason. Now, it appears another name has been added to the list.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers regarding tight end Jonnu Smith — Miami’s lone Pro Bowl selection in 2024. The talks stem from Smith’s desire to rework his current deal after a career-best season in his first year with the franchise.
Smith, 29, posted personal highs across the board with 88 receptions, 884 yards, and eight touchdowns last season. He also set franchise records for a tight end in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. But with the veteran tight end now seeking a raise from the $4.8 million he’s owed this season, the Dolphins may be weighing their options.
“Those talks came after Smith expressed an interest in reworking his deal… Smith’s preference, per sources, is to stay in Miami under a reworked deal,” Schefter reported.
While Smith hasn’t appeared at OTAs amid the contract dispute, the Dolphins aren’t rushing to make a move. Still, the Steelers’ interest is real — due in large part to offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who coached Jonnu in both Tennessee and Atlanta. The two have a strong working history, which ESPN’s Field Yates summed up simply: “Steelers OC Arthur Smith LOVES Jonnu Smith.”
From the Dolphins’ perspective, though, parting ways with their top offensive performer from a year ago — especially on a team thin at key positions — could be a risky move.
As Fox Sports’ Henry McKenna recently described, Miami has a “hollow roster.”
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Nonetheless, Smith’s $4.8 million cap hit is valuable. Trading him would create some flexibility, but also opens another hole on a roster that’s already moved on from multiple veterans this offseason.
Smith signed a two-year, $8.4 million deal with Miami in March 2024. He’s also set to earn $4.6 million in 2025, per Spotrac.
Whether the Dolphins cave to Smith’s contract demands or look to move him ahead of training camp remains to be seen — but in what’s already been an offseason of change in Miami, another shakeup may not be off the table.
