Jonnu Smith Hits the Market: A Tight End’s Journey Continues

Steelers Part Ways with Jonnu Smith

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming free agency, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to release tight end Jonnu Smith. This decision, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, is expected to clear $7 million from the team’s salary cap, strategically positioning them with approximately $50 million in available cap space for the offseason.

Smith’s Impact in Pittsburgh

Jonnu Smith, 30, arrived in Pittsburgh via a trade with the Miami Dolphins last June. Throughout the 2025 season, he participated in all 17 games, showcasing solid performance with:

• 38 receptions
• 222 receiving yards
• 2 touchdown catches
• 1 rushing touchdown

Smith’s versatility contributed to the Steelers’ offensive strategy, making his departure a notable change for the team.

Smith in action during the Steelers’ game against the Jets at MetLife Stadium. (Credit: Bill Kostroun/New York Post)

Smith’s NFL Journey

Jonnu Smith’s career began when he was drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans. Over the span of nine seasons, he has suited up for five different teams, which include:

• Tennessee Titans
• New England Patriots
• Miami Dolphins
• Pittsburgh Steelers

Career Stats

To date, Smith has accumulated impressive career stats:

• 114 receptions
• 1,302 receiving yards
• 16 touchdown catches

With his release, Smith will officially enter the market as an unrestricted free agent, looking for his sixth NFL team.

What This Means for the Steelers

With Jonnu Smith leaving the Steelers, the spotlight now turns to Pat Freiermuth, who is poised to take on a more prominent role in the year ahead. Under new head coach Mike McCarthy, Freiermuth is anticipated to step up, particularly after experiencing a diminished role with Smith on the roster.

Freiermuth’s Recent Performance

In the 2025 season, Freiermuth’s stats included:

• 486 receiving yards
• 4 touchdown receptions

This was a stark decrease compared to his 2024 performance, where he registered 653 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Jonnu Smith warming up before a game against the Browns. (Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images)

Looking Ahead

Alongside Freiermuth, the Steelers have Darnell Washington under contract, providing depth at the tight end position as the team recalibrates. As they head into free agency, Pittsburgh aims to leverage their financial flexibility to strengthen their roster further.

Conclusion

Jonnu Smith’s move to free agency marks a new chapter in his career, while it offers the Steelers an opportunity to recalibrate their tight end strategy. Stay tuned as the offseason unfolds, bringing potential shifts that could reshape the team’s dynamics.

For more updates on NFL free agency and team movements, check out ESPN or NFL Network.