Jonnu Smith contract demands cause Dolphins to look for trade partners

If you want to be successful in the NFL, you usually want to keep your best players. At the same time, off-the-field factors like money can end up driving a wedge between sides. That looks to be the case with the Miami Dolphins and tight end Jonnu Smith.

Per NFL insider Adam Schefter, Miami has been in trade discussions with the Steelers in regards to their 29-year-old Pro Bowler at TE. After setting the franchise record for single-season receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns by a tight end, Smith expressed to the front office that he’d like a reworked deal to reflect his recent production. As of now, Smith is set to make just $4.8 million this upcoming season.

Why the Steelers exactly?

Well, Pittsburgh’s current offensive coordinator is Arthur Smith who coached the tight end at both Tennessee and in the NFL in Atlanta. Prior to the 2024 campaign, Jonnu Smith’s best seasons had come while Arthur Smith was calling the plays.

According to Smith, his ideal scenario is the one where he ends up staying in Miami with a new deal. When you take a peek at the Dolphins’ tight end depth chart, you’d think the team would also want the same outcome.

Behind the eight-year veteran in the room is 31-year-old Pharaoh Brown, followed by 24-year-old Julian Hill and 27-year-old Tanner Conner. The latter two are also names likely only Dolphins fans would know and have a combined 164 career receiving yards.

Only time will tell if the Dolphins do end up moving one of their best players from a season ago, but if the money can’t get straightened out, expect Miami to try and get the most they can for the veteran following a breakout campaign.