Patriots dealing TE Jonnu Smith to Falcons

The New England Patriots are trading tight end Jonnu Smith to the Atlanta Falcons for a seventh-round pick, per ESPN.

In 2020, Smith excelled with the Tennessee Titans, accumulating 448 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. The following offseason, the Patriots signed him to a four-year, $50 million deal that included $31.25 million guaranteed. 

In 2021—Smith's first year with the Patriots— he only had 294 receiving yards and one touchdown -- far below the production expected from a tight end earning $12.5 million a year. 

The Patriots stuck with Smith in 2022, but his numbers (245 yards, no touchdowns) declined, making him expendable.

This move makes a lot of sense for the Falcons. Atlanta head coach Arthur Smith was Smith's tight ends coach and offensive coordinator with the Titans from 2016-20. Reuniting Smith with Smith may unlock more upside in the 27-year-old's game. 

The  Falcons are also expected to restructure Smith's contract to save money, according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer.  

The Falcons already feature Kyle Pitts in their tight end room, but adding Smith will provide depth for the rebuilding team.