Patriots, Jonnu Smith agree to four-year, $50M deal

Jonnu Smith Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots, TE Jonnu Smith agree to four-year, $50 million deal

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/15/21

The New England Patriots came out swinging in free agency on Monday, addressing a need they've had since Rob Gronkowski retired (and then unretired) after the 2018 season.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Patriots signed tight end Jonnu Smith to a four-year, $50 million deal with $31.25 million guaranteed.

Former Titans’ TE Jonnu Smith reached agreement with the Patriots on a 4–year, $50 million deals that includes $31.25 million fully guaranteed, @DrewJRosenhaus told ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2021

According to NFL Network's Michael Giardi, Smith was the Patriots' No. 1 pass-catching target.

Jonnu Smith was the #Patriots number one pass catching target. Per source, that deal is done. He is headed to NE.
— Michael Giardi (@MikeGiardi) March 15, 2021

The 25-year-old replaced Delanie Walker in 2020 and became the Tennessee Titans' primary tight end. He caught 41 passes for 448 yards and eight touchdowns, both of which were career highs. His eight TDs ranked fourth among tight ends.

Smith is a tough player to bring down at 6-3, 248 pounds. His blocking ability helped Derrick Henry rush for over 2,000 yards last season.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Patriots also actively seek a running back in free agency. Smith should help whatever RB the franchise adds to flourish in 2021.

Smith will almost certainly take over as New England's top tight end. Ryan Izzo, Matt LaCosse, Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene failed to get the job done in 2020, combining for 18 catches, 254 yards and one touchdown in.

Back in September, Titans head coach Mike Vrabel lauded Smith, saying, "He continues to improve, he's a great teammate, he's an unbelievable player to coach and to be around every day."

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