Steelers Fans Will Love Jonnu Smith’s Reaction to Trade From Dolphins

No one truly enjoys being blindsided by a shocking event, but everyone likes being where they feel valued. For new Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith, he’s experienced both realities late in the NFL offseason.

Smith, who was acquired from the Miami Dolphins via trade, is ready to move forward. Before that, though, the Pro Bowl pass catcher jumped on former Dolphin Terron Armstead’s podcast to reflect on his last week-plus.

If you’re a Steelers fan, you’ll absolutely love Smith’s reaction to joining the franchise and working with head coach Mike Tomlin.

Smith ‘Blessed’ to Join ‘Historic’ Steelers Franchise

“All in all, bro, I’m great, I’m blessed,” Smith said on July 3. “I’m a Steeler, you know what I’m saying? I’m playing for one of the most historic franchises in the history of sports [and] under a great head coach with Mike T. Back with my guy Arthur Smith, who I’ve had a lot of success with throughout my career. I’m extremely blessed, bro. I couldn’t be more excited.”

From the sounds of it, Smith is amped to hit the ground running. It’s hard to disagree with him, either, as he’s joining a team with serious title hopes. After some middling campaigns that have seen things get cut short, Pittsburgh is making a concerted effort to compete in 2025-26. Whether it be signing Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, trading for wideout DK Metcalf or even adding cornerback Jalen Ramsey in the same trade Smith was in, the process has been sound considering available resources.

The Steelers want to add to their championship total of six. President Art Rooney II made that clear when the club extended general manager Omar Khan’s contract. Their goal is for Smith to help them accomplish that feat, which he appears ready for.

No Hard Feelings for Dolphins Despite Smith Getting Traded

As the football world – players, fans and media alike – knows, the NFL is a business. Still, though, many parties fail to keep that in mind when contract-related matters play out. Despite being prepared to stay in Miami “forever,” Smith tried his best to ensure he wouldn’t fall into the trap countless others do.

His time with the Dolphins didn’t end how he expected it to, but he’s more than happy with the change of scenery.

“You always want to be where you’re most valued and appreciated,” Smith said. “And that’s the situation I found myself in with Pittsburgh. I’m excited, bro. Obviously, I didn’t foresee this happening with how the season went for me individually. Obviously, I had aspirations of ending my career in Miami with it basically being home for me and my children, my family. But I understand the business side of it, and it didn’t work out. I’m grateful. I’ve got no ill feelings toward anyone in Miami, nobody in the organization. I can’t sit here and lie and say it didn’t sting when the process was playing itself out.”

In his final year with Miami, Smith set career-high marks for receptions (88), yards (884) and touchdowns (8). His 83.4 Pro Football Focus receiving grade ranked fifth among all tight ends. Now set to enter his age-30 season, he’ll aim to answer some lingering questions about the Steelers’ offense.