The Pittsburgh Steelers are beginning preparations for their Week 1 clash against the New York Jets. One of the lingering questions surrounding the team, though, is whether or not they will have star tight end Jonnu Smith on the field, as he’s missed a significant amount of time this summer due to a knee injury.
Smith arrived in Pittsburgh after getting picked up in a blockbuster trade with the Miami Dolphins, joining an offense that will be led by legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With other weapons like DK Metcalf, Jaylen Warren and Pat Freiermuth, it remains to be seen how Smith will be utilized in the Steelers’ new-look offense.
Further complicating matters is that Smith barely practiced during training camp due to a lingering knee injury. While that is obviously a cause for concern, it simply seems like the team is playing it safe with their new offensive weapon, as Smith revealed that he’s feeling good ahead of his first season with Pittsburgh.
“I feel pretty good,” Smith said when speaking to reporters recently. “Just focusing on getting ready for Week 1, continuing to jump on the moving train. Excited to be able to get back into it and hop on that moving train.”
In his lone season with the Dolphins last year, Smith enjoyed a breakout campaign, catching 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns, earning him the first Pro Bowl selection of his career. While his production will likely dip now that he’s working alongside another established tight end in Freiermuth, there’s no doubt the Steelers have high hopes for Smith in 2025.
Story continues below advertisement
In order to meet those expectations, though, he needs to stay healthy and be on the field. So far, he hasn’t been able to do that, but as long as he’s on the field by Week 1, that’s all Pittsburgh will care about. Smith’s injury status will be worth monitoring over the next few days, but it seems like he’s trending towards playing in the Steelers’ season opener.
More NFL: Drew Brees Sends Strong Message To Aaron Rodgers Ahead Of 2025 Season
Featured image via Charles LeClaire/Imagn Images