The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Recent Trade Discussions Regarding Dolphins Tight End Jonnu Smith: An In-Depth Analysis
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Exploring the Trade Dialogue
In recent weeks, the landscape surrounding Miami Dolphins’ Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith has attracted significant attention in NFL trade rumor circuits, particularly concerning the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers, following the trade of wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, have been actively seeking receiving help to bolster their offense. Jonnu Smith, emerging from a breakout 2024 campaign with 88 receptions, 884 yards, and eight touchdowns, naturally became a potential target.
Insiders such as ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Dolphins and Steelers engaged in trade talks regarding Smith. Initial reports suggested a keen interest from Pittsburgh to acquire the veteran tight end, presumably to compensate for their recent offensive shifts and to add a versatile pass-catching weapon to their lineup. The discussions were sparked amid Smith’s desire for a contract rework given his strong performance in Miami and upcoming free agency status after the 2025 season.
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Jonnu Smith’s Position and Preferences
Key to understanding why a trade is unlikely is the stated preference of Jonnu Smith himself. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, clarified that Smith’s primary desire is to remain with the Dolphins. Despite the ongoing trade talks, Smith reportedly wants to negotiate a revised deal that reflects his career-best season and increasing market value. This puts the Dolphins in a position where they need to balance salary cap realities, team-building strategies, and player retention preferences.
Smith’s agent indicated the player’s preference for stability in Miami, where he resides during the offseason and established records. His wish to stay complicates trade possibilities, as any deal would likely need to address his contract demands and willingness to relocate.
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Steelers’ Current Strategy and Alternative Moves
While the Steelers engaged in exploratory talks for Smith, current intelligence suggests that they are not expected to proceed with a trade for the tight end. National insiders Mark Kaboly and Ian Rapoport have downplayed or dismissed the likelihood of a finalized deal, pointing toward a lack of genuine interest or a misalignment in valuation between the two teams.
Instead, the Steelers have shifted focus by scheduling a visit with free agent wide receiver Gabe Davis. This move indicates Pittsburgh seeking receiving help through less complicated terms, such as free agency, possibly aiming for flexibility without sacrificing draft capital or significant salary commitments tied to a trade.
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Factors Influencing the Trade Prospects
Several dynamics contribute to why a trade seems improbable despite initial talks:
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What This Means for Both Teams
For Miami, retaining Smith could provide continuity at a critical offensive skill position, assuming contract talks progress favorably. However, the Dolphins must weigh salary cap impacts and roster flexibility in a competitive AFC East environment.
For the Steelers, the rejection or downplaying of the Smith trade scenario frees resources to pursue alternative wide receivers or offensive talents that fit their cost structures and strategic philosophy. Hosting Gabe Davis, a notable free agent, demonstrates this alternative approach, focused on incremental improvements without major trade upheavals.
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Looking Ahead: Conclusion and Implications
While the Steelers and Dolphins flirted with the possibility of a trade involving Jonnu Smith, multiple indicators now point away from that outcome. Smith’s clear preference to remain in Miami, coupled with logistical and financial considerations, pivoted Pittsburgh’s focus toward other avenues for offensive enhancement. This episode highlights the complexities of player trades in the modern NFL, where player agency, contract negotiations, and strategic fit converge to shape roster decisions.
In summary, the Steelers’ recent trade discussions for Jonnu Smith, though grounded in legitimate interest, appear to be a strategic exploration rather than an imminent transaction. As the free-agent market evolves and contract negotiations unfold, both teams will seek paths that best align with their competitive goals, underscoring the fluid and dynamic nature of NFL roster management.
