Jonnu Smith blasts Miami Dolphins after trade, accuses team of disrespecting his value
Jonnu Smith isn't hiding how he feels after being traded from the Miami Dolphins to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite his professionalism, the veteran tight end made it clear that the move stung—especially after the Dolphins refused to offer him a new contract following his breakout 2024 season.
Jonnu Smith reveals emotional side of trade, says Dolphins didn't value him like a Pro Bowler
In a candid conversation on teammate Terron Armstead's podcast, Smith opened up about his reaction to the trade and the failed contract talks that preceded it. 'Going through that process, I was hurt,' he said. 'I didn't think that collectively—as an organization, players, coaches—I didn't think that [they believed] trading Jonnu Smith, that's where our success starts.'
The Dolphins, according to Smith, told him they couldn't 'economically' justify paying him at a Pro Bowl level, despite his stellar season in 2024 where he caught 88 passes for 884 yards and 8 touchdowns.
'That one stung,' Smith admitted.
Pittsburgh welcomes Jonnu Smith with respect—and a payday
Once it became clear that Miami wouldn't budge on compensation, Smith began looking elsewhere. 'I had to make the decision to say, man, well I've got to go where I am appreciated and viewed on paper, economically, contract-wise as a top guy in this league—which I know I am,' he explained. 'And Pittsburgh was the team that saw me as that.'
The Steelers wasted no time showing their faith, giving Smith a one-year, $12 million extension as part of the deal that also saw cornerback Jalen Ramsey head to Pittsburgh.
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In exchange, the Dolphins received star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Though Smith insisted he has 'no ill feelings' toward the Dolphins, it's hard to ignore the timing of the Steelers' schedule. Pittsburgh is set to face Miami in Week 15, giving Smith a chance to show his former team what they let go.
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Given his comments and the motivation behind them, that matchup could be one of the most personal games on the calendar for the tight end. Now, in black and gold, Smith is looking forward to proving Miami wrong—and proving the Steelers right.
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
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Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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