Behind the Steel Curtain
The Steelers could land a Pro Bowl tight end
The main focus surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason has been the quarterback position. Specifically, the question on when Aaron Rodgers will sign with Pittsburgh. However, the latest report from Adam Schefter of ESPN says the Steelers could acquire a Pro Bowl tight end.
Per Schefter, the Steelers and Miami Dolphins have had discussions about a trade involving tight end Jonnu Smith.
“The Dolphins have had trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers about their lone Pro-Bowl selection last season, tight end Jonnu Smith, per league sources,” Schefter said on X. “Those talks came after Smith expressed an interest in reworking his deal that is scheduled to pay him $4.8 million this season. With Smith seeking a new contract, Miami has sought a trade partner. Last season, Smith set the franchise record for a tight end in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. Smith’s preference, per sources, is to stay in Miami under a reworked deal.”
The Steelers signed tight end Pat Freiermuth to a four-year, $48.4 million extension last offseason, so acquiring Smith and then paying him a large chunk of money would be an odd allocation of resources - unless they plan to use Smith purely as a big power-slot receiver, which could make sense.
Smith had 88 catches for 884 yards and eight touchdowns last season with Miami, all of which were career-highs.
