The Pittsburgh Steelers will need to add more offensive weapons to support their quarterback—whoever ultimately earns the job. One name that has surfaced in rumors is veteran tight end Jonnu Smith. But according to a local insider, that talk may be more agent-driven than team-driven.
Pittsburgh Insider Downplays Jonnu Smith Rumor
Despite recent speculation, there doesn’t appear to be much traction on the idea of Jonnu Smith heading to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Ray Fittipaldo joined 93.7 The Fan’s “The PM Team” and made it clear the rumor hasn’t come from within the Steelers organization.
“I know, guys, it’s not coming from the team,” Fittipaldo said. “I think it’s probably a situation where Jonnu Smith has played for Arthur Smith before, and I think his agent is probably trying to use this as leverage. So that’s my take on it right now.”
While Fittipaldo acknowledged that the Steelers could still make a move later, he emphasized that, as of now, there’s no real momentum.
“I never say never… but I don’t think there’s much to it right now.”
The Steelers already have a solid group at tight end with Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and Donald Parham Jr. on the roster, making the need for another veteran less urgent—at least on paper.
Adam Schefter First to Link Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh
The rumor first gained steam when ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the Steelers had discussions with the Dolphins about acquiring Smith. According to Schefter, the talks were initiated after Smith requested a new deal. He’s currently scheduled to earn $4.8 million next season.
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. Those talks came after Smith expressed an interest in reworking his deal that is scheduled to pay him $4.8 million this… pic.twitter.com/t4G8DqsF6s
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 29, 2025
Smith had a career resurgence last season with Miami, setting new personal bests in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. His strong performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection.
His connection with current Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith adds some logic to the rumors. The two spent four years together with the Tennessee Titans from 2017 to 2020, during which the offense saw consistent success. Arthur Smith has also shown a pattern of bringing in former players he’s familiar with—most recently, tight end MyCole Pruitt, who followed him from Atlanta to Pittsburgh.
Still, while the pieces may fit on paper, the buzz around Jonnu Smith appears to be more speculation than substance for now—at least according to those closest to the situation in Pittsburgh.