The Denver Broncos could use another tight end before the start of the 2026 season following the disappointing 2025 season put forth by free-agent signing Evan Engram, and a perfect option may have just become available.
On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers made the cost-cutting decision to release veteran tight end Jonnu Smith after just one season with the team. The Broncos, looking for a tough tight end who can both block and play a factor in the passing game, could be a team that looks into grabbing him.
Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports sees it as a possibility.
"Denver is eager to get more out of their tight ends in 2026 after getting just three touchdowns from that position in 2025. With Adam Trautman set to enter free agency, Smith could fill his vacant spot in Denver's starting lineup.
Smith would give Denver two proven pass-catchers at tight end; the team also still has Evan Engram, a two-time Pro Bowler who caught 50 passes during his first season with the Broncos", wrote DeArdo.
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All of this makes sense. Smith is an upgrade over Adam Trautman in every way, but would he bring to Denver all of the things that Engram doesn't?
Smith is a willing blocker, but it's not a strength, who is athletic enough to get out and make plays in the passing game. He has shown the ability to use his body like a basketball player to position himself to make catches and he is difficult to bring down in the open field.
Here are some highlights from his lone season in Pittsburgh, where you'll see him do a little bit of everything, including lining up in the backfield as a running back.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers free-agent tight end Cade Otton is a popular option for the Broncos in free agency for many of the same reasons, but Smith would be much cheaper. In the NFL, the players who are found in free agency for the best bargain often have more of an impact than the big-ticket guys.
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If the Broncos want to go bargain hunting at tight end, Smith presents a viable option. However, Sean Payton will likely prefer a stronger blocker who can also be a solid option to throw the ball to, which is why paying up for a guy like Otton makes more sense.
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