Jonnu Smith Trade to Steelers Reportedly 'Still Alive' amid Dolphins Contract Rumors

The Pittsburgh Steelers "renewed conversations today" with Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Schefter reported a trade between Pittsburgh and Miami "is still alive" with Smith wanting a new contract. He later added that Steelers tight end Donald Parham Jr. reportedly tore his Achilles that is likely to end his 2025 season.

The 29-year-old is due to be a free agent next spring, and his $3.5 million base salary looks like a bargain after the season he had. He caught 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024, earning his first Pro Bowl nod.

Drew Rosenhaus, Smith's agent, said Sunday on WSVN-7 (via the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson) that "Jonnu would definitely like to stay in Miami," and staying with the Dolphins is his "first choice."

General manager Chris Grier is taking a more careful approach with the team's payroll, though. That's why cornerback Jalen Ramsey could be on the way out only a year after getting a big extension.

The Steelers, meanwhile, need to strengthen their passing game after trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. As things stand, DK Metcalf will have to shoulder a high burden in terms of targets.

Based on his output last year, Smith would also be a good complement to Pat Freiermuth, who has been a consistent pass-catcher but has yet to register more than 732 receiving yards in a single campaign.

Of course, the biggest question mark with the Steelers offense is who will be the starting quarterback. Acquiring Smith may not change much for a team that's looking at Mason Rudolph or Will Howard as QB1.

Pittsburgh GM Omar Khan can't wait forever for Aaron Rodgers to make up his mind, and he can't let Rodgers' indecision get in the way of other business.

For the right price, both in terms of the trade cost and what it would take to extend his contract, Smith would be a worthwhile addition.