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The Dolphins just traded for their Jonnu Smith replacement — and it’s a wilder solution than anyone could have predicted

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Kyle Crabbs | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 2:40 PM ET

The Miami Dolphins are getting creative to help fill the void left behind by tight end Jonnu Smith's departure yesterday.

Miami included Smith, who had a career year in 2024, in their blockbuster trade yesterday, which finally brought an end to their Jalen Ramsey saga. Smith was hopeful for a new deal to stay in Miami but after receiving a salary adjustment from Pittsburgh that lands him at $12 million for the 2025 season, it is quite clear that Miami and Smith were quite far apart on compensation.

The Dolphins have found their replacement in short order, however. The Dolphins are nothing if not creative for the choice.

Miami Dolphins acquire TE Darren Waller via trade

Surprise! The #Dolphins are finalizing a trade with the #Giants for former Pro Bowl TE Darren Waller, who is coming out of retirement to play in Miami, per sources.

A fascinating twist for Waller, who retired last summer, and a new weapon for a team that just traded Jonnu Smith. pic.twitter.com/MDO2XnHClb
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 1, 2025

Waller did not play in 2024 and temporarily retired after posting 52 receptions for 552 in his one and only season with the New York Giants in 2023. Waller was traded to New York ahead of the 2023 season for the No. 100 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. His length and speed, if healthy, will give the Dolphins a viable pass catching tight end to help fill the void left behind Smith.

Not only is Miami getting creative with the answer, they're getting creative with the compensation. The reports indicate Miami is acquiring Waller, plus a 2027 seventh-round draft pick for a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick. Waller will sign a one-year adjusted contract worth "up to" $5 million to play in Miami in 2025. The deal was negotiated by Waller's agent, Drew Rosenhaus.

The Dolphins have conducted a lot of business with Rosenhaus and his clients in the past, including Jonnu Smith. One would have to assume that the Dolphins, in their negotiations with Smith, were able to tap into Rosenhaus and his awareness of Waller's frame of mind and openness to play in 2025.

For the Dolphins, it alleviates some pressure for the need to find a Smith replacement. What Waller has left in the tank? The Dolphins will find out in the coming weeks once he reports to training camp with the rest of the roster on July 22nd.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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