Let’s be honest — the Pittsburgh Steelers don’t need another tight end. Pat Freiermuth is a solid contributor, and the team has far more pressing needs on offense. But with Arthur Smith calling the shots and the front office openly searching for receiving help, it’s clear they’re looking to add another weapon to support their developing quarterbacks.
The rumored pursuit of Dolphins veteran Jonnu Smith makes some sense on paper — he’s experienced, familiar with Smith’s scheme, and coming off a career year.
If Pittsburgh is going to pull the trigger, they should be thinking bigger. Much bigger. They should be calling the Atlanta Falcons about Kyle Pitts.
In all honesty, the idea of adding a 24-year-old former top-five pick like Pitts to this offense is far more exciting than bringing in another veteran. Yes, Pitts’ numbers haven’t wowed since his 1,000-yard rookie campaign, but let’s not pretend he’s lost his edge.
He’s still 6’6”, 250 pounds, and a nightmare matchup for any linebacker or safety in the league. Pitts is still one of the most athletic tight ends in football, and under the right system — one he’s already familiar with — he can thrive again.
The Pittsburgh Steelers should prioritize Kyle Pitts over Jonnu Smith
Arthur Smith and Pitts didn’t exactly light the world on fire in Atlanta, but sometimes a change of scenery is all a player needs to reset. More importantly, Smith knows how to use Pitts.
This isn’t a long-shot project. It’s a reunion with purpose, one that would give the Steelers’ quarterback room — whether it’s Mason Rudolph or Will Howard — a legitimate playmaker down the seam.
According to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, the Falcons are seeking at least a Day 2 pick for Pitts. With 12 selections already in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Steelers have the ammo to make this happen without crippling their long-term flexibility.
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Sure, Jonnu Smith is safer. But he’s also 28 and still hasn’t hit 1,000 receiving yards in a season — something Pitts has already done at a younger age. If the Steelers are set on adding a tight end, why not take the swing that could change your offense, not just support it?
Kyle Pitts in Pittsburgh feels like the kind of gamble worth making. If it’s between Smith and Pitts, the choice is obvious. Go big or go home.
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