Steelers Suddenly On Verge Of Trading For Pro Bowl Offensive Weapon

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a move early in the offseason to trade away star wide receiver George Pickens. Since then, there have been plenty of questions about whether Pittsburgh would dive back into the wide receiver market to address the loss. While there are still a few solid veteran receivers available in free agency, the Steelers seem to be exploring a different path to strengthen their offense.

Instead of targeting another wide receiver, the Steelers are turning their attention to the tight end position. On Thursday, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Pittsburgh is in serious trade talks with the Miami Dolphins for Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith. After a strong 2024 season in Miami, Smith has become an attractive target for a team looking to add versatility and athleticism to its passing game.

Bringing in Smith could give the Steelers a much-needed boost on offense. He is a reliable pass catcher and a matchup problem for opposing defenses. With Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith familiar with Jonnu from their time together in Tennessee, the fit makes a lot of sense. It may not be the move fans expected, but it could be exactly what the Steelers need to stay competitive.

The Steelers are reportedly deep into trade discussions with the Dolphins for Smith, and there’s growing optimism within the organization that a deal could get done. Smith’s previous experience working with Arthur during their time together in Tennessee likely makes him an even more appealing target. 

That familiarity with the system and coaching style could allow for a seamless transition and immediate impact. With the Steelers aiming to revamp a passing attack that lacked consistency last season, Smith’s possible addition could be a major step in the right direction.

During the 2024 season, Smith quietly emerged as one of the most productive tight ends in the NFL. He finished the year with 88 receptions for 884 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. What makes his performance even more impressive is that he managed to put up those numbers despite inconsistent quarterback play, as Dolphins starter Tua Tagovailoa missed significant time due to injuries. Smith’s ability to produce in a turbulent offense shows just how valuable he can be, especially in a system that knows how to use his unique skill set.

Steelers Could Have An Elite Tight End System

If the Steelers manage to land Smith, it would immediately open the door to a two-tight end system featuring both Smith and Pat Freiermuth. This kind of setup could create serious matchup problems for defenses, especially in the red zone and on play-action plays. 

It’s a move that may not have been expected after the trade of Pickens, but it could be the perfect solution to elevate the Steelers’ passing game. With Arthur designing the offense and the thought of two capable tight ends on the field, Pittsburgh might finally find the balance and versatility it has been missing.

Smith is 29 years old and coming off the best season of his career, proving he still has plenty of playmaking ability left. The idea of pairing him with Freiermuth in 12 and even 13 personnel packages is an exciting possibility for the Steelers' offense. With both tight ends capable of stretching the field, blocking effectively, and creating mismatches, it could give Pittsburgh a new identity rooted in versatility and physicality.

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