How many tight ends does it take to fill out the Pittsburgh Steelers roster?
The organization may add another big-bodied player to the position group if reported trade discussions with the Miami Dolphins lead to a deal taking place.
ESPN reported Thursday that the Steelers are talking to the Dolphins about acquiring tight end Jonnu Smith, who has asked Miami to rework a contract that will pay him $3.49 million in base salary this season. Smith did not attend any of Miami’s voluntary organized team activities this week.
Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith long has coveted the tight end for his schemes. The Steelers used five last season, spearheaded by Pat Freiermuth, who led the team with 65 receptions and was second with 653 receiving yards.
Connor Heyward and Darnell Washington return for their fourth and third seasons, respectively, with the Steelers. MyCole Pruitt was not signed in free agency, but the Steelers replaced him with 6-foot-8 Donald Parham. Also on the roster is undrafted free agent J.J. Galbreath.
Jonnu Smith has a long association with Arthur Smith dating to their days in Tennessee. Arthur Smith was Jonnu Smith’s position coach and then offensive coordinator. Jonnu Smith, 29, also played for Arthur Smith in 2023 for the Atlanta Falcons.
Jonnu Smith had a breakout season in 2024 when he caught 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns in his first season with the Dolphins. He is set to be a free agent after the 2025 season.
Joe Rutter is a TribLive reporter who has covered the Pittsburgh Steelers since the 2016 season. A graduate of Greensburg Salem High School and Point Park, he is in his fifth decade covering sports for the Trib. He can be reached at jrutter@triblive.com.
