Another Miami Dolphins veteran is in the trade rumor mill.
Last week, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Miami was in trade discussions to send Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with interest in a new contract as the reasoning.
While Pittsburgh certainly makes sense for Smith due to his familiarity with the coaching staff, specifically his former offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, the FIU product's first choice would be to stay with the Dolphins.
Smith's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, put out a statement regarding the trade rumors surrounding his client.
"Jonnu would definitely like to stay in Miami. That's his first choice. This is where he lives in the offseason. He had a record-breaking season last year. ... His dream team is the Dolphins."
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of their game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of their game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
After having a career year with the Dolphins in 2024, it's hard to blame Smith for wanting to leave head coach Mike McDaniels' offensive system.
Smith set franchise records for a tight end, hauling in 884 yards receiving on 88 receptions, with eight receiving touchdowns.
The Dolphins shouldn't feel comfortable moving off of their lone Pro Bowler in 2025. The only tight ends behind him currently on the roster are Julian Hill, Pharaoh Brown, and Tanner Connor, none of whom have experience as a starter.
Miami shouldn't be in the business of parting ways with players that want to be there, and if all it takes is giving Smith a raise on his $4.8 million salary, the Dolphins should do it.
Smith had 62 catches for 626 yards and scored five touchdowns in 11 games with Tua Tagovailoa in 2024, and that chemistry could only continue to grow.