Dec 15, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) runs with the ball as Houston Texans linebacker Henry To’oTo’o (39) attempts to make a tackle during the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Pittsburgh Steelers: Jonnu Smith Trade Pursuit is Back on After Brutal Injury in OTAs

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Rex Villas | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 3:38 AM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers took a big blow in the tight end position when it was revealed that Donald Parham Jr. suffered a serious lower-body injury. Parham reportedly tore his Achilles during the OTA on Tuesday. Parham’s injury happened in light of the Steelers taking a step back in their pursuit of Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith. But with the Parham injury, it makes more sense now for Pittsburgh to revisit its plans of going after Smith via a trade.

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Steelers are doing just that (h/t ESPN).

“The Pittsburgh Steelers renewed conversations Tuesday with Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, who is seeking a new contract, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The development brings new life to a possible trade between the Steelers and Dolphins after sources had told Schefter earlier Tuesday that a trade was not expected to be completed.”

Dolphins head coach sounds off amid Jonnu Smith-Pittsburgh Steelers rumors

Smith’s agent has already expressed his client’s desire to stay in Miami, but there is still the question about whether the Dolphins can give a big pay raise for the tight end when the time comes for a contract extension negotiation.

In any case, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel is all-in on Smith.

Via Kevin Patra of NFL.com:

Head coach Mike McDaniel said Tuesday that Smith is a “very important” cog in his offense.

“I haven’t considered anything other than I want Jonnu on the team,” McDaniel told reporters. “I think he wants to be here.”

Dec 29, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) dives into the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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