Steelers Reportedly ‘Still Alive’ To Trade For Veteran Tight End After Injury To Pass-Catcher

Even ESPN’s Adam Schefter can reverse course sometimes.

Schefter reported Tuesday morning that the Pittsburgh Steelers were not expected to trade for Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith after showing interest in the pass-catcher. It appeared the Steelers were pivoting to free agent wide receiver Gabe Davis, who Schefter reported was scheduled to visit the Steelers on Thursday.

But Schefter offered a new report Tuesday evening that revealed the Steelers haven’t given up entirely on acquiring Smith.

“Back in it: the Steelers renewed conversations today with Dolphins TE Jonnu Smith, who is seeking a new contract,” Schefter wrote on X. “The trade between the Steelers and Dolphins is still alive, per source.”

Smith put together his best season of his eight-year NFL career in 2024 with the Dolphins. Smith totaled career highs with 88 receptions for 884 yards and matched a career high with eight touchdowns.

The veteran tight end would give the Steelers offense another threat as questions abound about the team’s pass-catching group — and quarterback situation — outside of DK Metcalf and Pat Freiermuth.

Perhaps the reason the Steelers reengaged in trade talks for Smith is the major injury Donald Parham Jr. suffered. Schefter reported Parham tore his Achilles during Tuesday’s OTAs and is expected to miss the entirety of the 2025 season.

It’s unclear how the Steelers’ remaining interest in Smith will impact their pursuit of Davis. Obtaining Smith and Davis would be a big boost to Pittsburgh’s offense.