Behind the Steel Curtain
The new Steelers tight end did not shy away from telling everyone what led to him landing in Pittsburgh.
In what is supposed to be a quiet period for the NFL in the weeks leading up to training camp, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves as the talk of the league for a multitude of reasons. Pittsburgh has easily been the most active team in the last month, and this week has been no exception, as they acquired Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith and cornerback Jalen Ramsey in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick, with the teams also swapping late-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Smith has been tied to the Steelers for the simple reason of the connection with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. The two have spent several seasons together in the NFL during their respective time with the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons. While the relationship has been the punchline of many jokes for fans to draw easy connections as to why the Steelers made a move for Smith, there is a deep level of respect between the pair.
Smith has been quick to share his thoughts on being traded to Pittsburgh, as Smith joined former Dolphins teammate and longtime NFL left tackle Terron Armstead on his YouTube channel to give his reaction to his new team.
“I’m playing for one of the most historic sports franchises...” Smith said. “[I’m] back with my guy, Arthur Smith, who I’ve had a lot of success with in my career. I couldn’t be more excited.”
There was no doubt in watching this video that Smith is excited to have a change of scenery and be back with a coach he respects a lot. Smith was also open about Pittsburgh being a team that views him as someone who could be due for a big payday.
“I had to make the decision to go where I’m appreciated and viewed on paper...contract-wise as a top guy in this league, which I know I am. Pittsburgh was the team that saw me as that”
Not only does Smith get to reunite with a former coach, but he sees Pittsburgh as a place that views him highly and could potentially add more years to his contract.
It will be very interesting to see exactly how Smith fits into the Steelers' offense. With fellow tight end Pat Freiermuth, we could see the Steelers run more two-tight-end sets than we have seen in recent memory. Expect Aaron Rodgers to spread the ball around this year, but do not doubt that Arthur Smith will draw up some plays for Jonnu Smith to work in space.
