Report: Steelers Open Up 7 Million In Cap Room With Veteran's Release

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a splash before the 2025 season by acquiring tight end Jonnu Smith and defensive back Jalen Ramsey in a trade that sent former Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins. The move generated significant excitement among Steelers fans, who believed the team had added a highly productive tight end coming off a strong 2024 season in Miami. Expectations were high, as Smith joined a tight end room that already included Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, which many predicted could become one of the league’s best.

Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan. Aaron Rodgers struggled to find chemistry with Freiermuth, and Smith endured a difficult 2025 season, failing to replicate his previous production. The high hopes for Pittsburgh’s tight end group quickly faded, and it became widely expected that Smith’s time with the team was coming to an end after just one season.

Confirming those expectations, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Steelers were officially moving on from Smith, a decision that will save the team $7 million. While the trade initially brought optimism, it ultimately did not deliver the results Pittsburgh had hoped for, leaving fans reflecting on what could have been for a talented tight end whose time in Pittsburgh was far shorter than anticipated.

"Steelers are releasing tight end Jonnu Smith, per sources," Schefter revealed. "The move will save the Steelers $7 million against the cap and Smith now will become an unrestricted free agent."

The decision to release Smith marks a significant turning point for the Steelers’ offense. Once viewed as a potential game-changer at the tight end position, Smith’s struggles were compounded by an offense that never quite clicked. Injuries, inconsistent quarterback play, and adjustments to new schemes all played a role in limiting his effectiveness. Fans who had envisioned a dominant trio of Smith, Freiermuth, and Washington now face the reality that the team must regroup and re-evaluate its plans for the position.

Smith’s release also raises questions about Pittsburgh’s broader roster strategy. The $7 million salary cap savings will give the team some financial flexibility, but it also underscores the gamble inherent in big trades. While the Steelers were hopeful that adding Smith would immediately improve the passing game, it became clear that chemistry and timing are just as crucial as raw talent. The Steelers likely can operate effectively in McCarthy's offense with Freiermuth and Washington. They won't really need to go out and get another tight end after this move.

Steelers Fans Are Left To Process The Unfulfilled Expectations

For Smith, the move doesn’t necessarily mark the end of his NFL career. Despite a disappointing season, his previous production and experience make him an attractive option for teams in need of a versatile tight end. Several organizations could view him as a low-risk, high-reward addition capable of bouncing back with the right system and quarterback.

Steelers fans, meanwhile, are left to process the frustration of unfulfilled expectations. Social media was flooded with reactions, ranging from disappointment over what could have been to optimism that the team can use this opportunity to find a better fit. As the 2026 offseason approaches, Pittsburgh faces crucial decisions that could redefine its offensive identity and determine whether this release becomes a turning point toward improvement or another chapter of missed opportunities.

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