Dolphins' quarterback Tua Tagovailoa spoke with the media this morning and did not mince words when asked about the Jonnu Smith situation.
A reporter asked Tagovailoa if he was "Team pay Jonnu?" and the quarterback had a three-word response.
"One hundred percent," Tagovailoa said.
This has been an ongoing situation in the Dolphins' camp that everyone seems to be just waiting for a solution to. Smith has not participated in voluntary OTAs and will not participate in mandatory minicamp as the situation resolves itself.
The Dolphins' tight end is entering the final year of a two-year, $8.4 million contract he signed before the 2024 season. However, Smith had a career year in 2024.
The veteran tight end broke out for 88 catches, 884 yards, and eight touchdowns, breaking nearly all the Dolphins' single-season tight end records. Now, Smith wants to be paid the appropriate amount for his breakout performance, and his quarterback agrees.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa at Hard Rock Stadium.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa at Hard Rock Stadium.
Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images
"That's my guy, that's my dog, and Jonnu's done really good for us, so I have nothing bad to say about him. I mean, I love him as a person too, so you know, outside of the football," Tagovailoa said. "I think that all of our guys that do what they need to do - they should get paid."
Smith did what he needed to do in 2024. Mike McDaniel also commented during OTAs that he would love to have Smith back for 2025.
It seems everyone wants Smith back on the Dolphins after his career year in 2024, but the question is whether the front office will pay him what he feels he deserves.
Smith's agent also released a statement saying Smith would love to stay in Miami. He attended college at FIU and enjoys playing for the Dolphins. However, it's up to the two sides to come to an agreement.
Whether it's on a restructured contract with the Dolphins or elsewhere via a trade, Smith will look to build on his breakout season in 2025.