Sep 12, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) reacts on the field while training staff members attend to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1, not pictured) after an apparent injury during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

Steelers Interested in Trading for Jonnu Smith: Latest on Potential Trade Talks

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Bjorn Anderson | Last updated May 29, 2025 10:06 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers may be looking to add more firepower to their offense—and they’ve set their sights on a familiar face. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers are in trade talks with the Miami Dolphins to acquire veteran tight end Jonnu Smith.

The Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about their lone Pro-Bowl selection last season, tight end Jonnu Smith, per league sources. Those talks came after Smith expressed an interest in reworking his deal that is scheduled to pay him $4.8 million this… pic.twitter.com/t4G8DqsF6s

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 29, 2025

Jonnu Smith’s Potential Situation

Smith, 29, is fresh off a career year in Miami, where he posted personal bests in receptions (88), receiving yards (884), and touchdowns (8). He was the Dolphins’ lone Pro Bowl selection in 2024 and one of the league’s most efficient tight ends, with a 63.1% receiving success rate. However, after outperforming expectations, Smith is reportedly seeking a reworked contract and has not been present at OTAs.

A potential trade to Pittsburgh would reunite Smith with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who coached him during three of his previous stops in Tennessee and Atlanta. Jonnu’s strong start in the NFL owed a lot to Arthur Smith’s system, through which he caught 126 passes, had 1,469 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.

The Steelers have been aggressive this offseason in reshaping their offense. They’ve already added wide receiver DK Metcalf, signed veteran Robert Woods, and remain linked to quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Pairing Jonnu Smith with starter Pat Freiermuth, who tallied 653 yards and 7 touchdowns last year, would give Pittsburgh a potent 1-2 punch at tight end—alongside recent additions Donald Parham Jr. and rookie JJ Galbreath.

Jonnu Smith signed a two-year, $10 million deal with the Dolphins in March 2024, but with $4.6 million due in 2025, his breakout season has given him leverage to push for a new deal—or a fresh start elsewhere. While he has said he wants to remain in Miami, joining the Steelers could provide him with a better contract and coaching opportunity.

If the trade works out, Smith would join up with a strong offensive mind and the Steelers would have a tough offense across all parts of the field.

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

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