How does the addition of TE Jonnu Smith impact the Steelers roster?
Included in the Pittsburgh Steelers blockbuster trade with the Miami Dolphins is Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith. The swap of cornerback Jalen Ramsey and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick will steal all the headlines but the addition of Smith could have a significant impact on an offensive roster in a state of flux. Here is what the addition of Smith could mean for the Steelers roster and offense.
Smith gives them three quality tight ends
The Steelers, under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, have never been shy about running multiple tight ends, so getting a third quality player, especially one who can catch the football, is a plus. Smith's ability to line up all over the formation tells us he's going to be on the field, even if it means three tight ends at the same time.
Smith and Smith have a history
The Steelers offensive coordinator and their newest tight end are now reunited for the third time on a third team. If anyone knows what Smith can do as a player, it's going to be Arthur Smith. It is just a matter of if Smith is clever enough to make this work.
Bad news for Darnell Washington
The addition of Smith can't mean anything good for Washington in terms of reps and targets. Washington showed up to OTAs and minicamp in better shape and sounded like he was doing all the right things to be a co-starter with Pat Freiermuth. This trade brings that into question now.
Smith can hide some problems at wide receiver
Another reason we expect Smith to have a more significant role on offense than Washington is his ability to operate as a wide receiver. For all the moves the Steelers have made, wide receiver depth is still an issue. Smith caught 88 passes last season with the Dolphins and had 50 the year before with the Atlanta Falcons.
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