The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a pivotal offseason decision with veteran tight end Jonnu Smith. After being acquired in a 2025 trade with the Miami Dolphins, which also brought Jalen Ramsey to Pittsburgh, Smith's performance has fallen short of expectations. Despite an impressive 2024 season, Smith hasn't lived up to the $12 million contract extension he signed with the Steelers.
The tight end room in Pittsburgh is already crowded with talents like Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, making Smith's future with the team uncertain. Analysts, including USA TODAY's Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, see Smith as a likely candidate for release.
Smith was initially brought in to bolster a receiving corps that lacked depth beyond DK Metcalf. However, his production dipped to just 222 receiving yards, the lowest since his rookie year, serving mainly as a safety valve for Aaron Rodgers.
The shift in the Steelers' coaching staff, with Mike McCarthy stepping in as the new head coach and play-caller, adds another layer to the decision-making process. Even if Rodgers stays, the financial implications of Smith's nearly $10.9 million cap hit for a 30-year-old player who complicates the tight end situation are hard to justify. Cutting Smith could save the Steelers $7 million, a move that seems increasingly likely.
Should the Steelers part ways with Smith, several teams could show interest. The New York Giants, Washington Commanders, and Philadelphia Eagles are potential landing spots. The Eagles face uncertainty with Dallas Goedert's impending free agency, while the Commanders might need a replacement for Zach Ertz, who is contemplating retirement after a significant injury.
In New York, the Giants are in search of experience at the tight end position. With Theo Johnson still unproven and Daniel Bellinger approaching free agency, Smith could provide the veteran presence they need. Additionally, the Giants are eager to equip Jaxson Dart with more offensive weapons, and Smith could be a valuable asset if utilized effectively.