Jonnu Smith is returning to the AFC East and has an opportunity to create challenges for the New England Patriots. Reports indicate that the free agent tight end has agreed to a two-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, potentially worth up to $10 million. Smith seemingly confirmed the deal on social media, with support from his new teammate Tyreek Hill.
Smith, 28, secured his new contract before the official start of free agency due to his release by the Atlanta Falcons last month. Despite a successful year with career highs in receptions (50) and receiving yards (582), Smith became a cap casualty for the Falcons.
Smith joined the Patriots as a high-profile free agent before the 2021 NFL season but failed to meet expectations. Despite being touted as a versatile and athletic tight end with open-field prowess, Smith struggled to make an impact in the Patriots’ offense.
During his two seasons in New England, Smith caught 55 passes for 539 yards. After the 2022 season, he was traded to the Falcons for a seventh-round draft pick.
As part of their aggressive free-agent strategy in 2021, the Patriots signed Smith to a four-year, $50 million contract. The team hoped he could replicate his success against them from his time with the Titans. The plan was for him to form a dynamic tight end duo with another free agent addition, Hunter Henry.
The plan to create a dynamic tight end duo with Hunter Henry in New England didn’t materialize as expected. However, in Miami, Smith joins a team with one of the NFL’s most dangerous offenses. Under the direction of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, known for his innovative schemes to get quick players the ball in space, Smith’s athleticism could be effectively utilized. While he didn’t consistently produce in New England, Smith showed promise in Atlanta. Joining the potent Miami offense could be the right environment for Smith to continue his post-Patriots breakout.
