Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith has been the subject of trade chatter while he angles to get a new deal after a smashing 2024 season.
Smith's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, was asked about the situation during his weekly segment on WSVN-7 in Miami.
"Here's what I will say on behalf of my client: Jonnu would definitely like to stay in Miami," Rosenhaus said, via the Miami Herald. "That's his first choice. This is where he lives in the offseason. He had a record-breaking season last year. It was the best season ever for a Miami Dolphin tight end. ... He broke the team record for receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns for a tight end and was the team's single Pro Bowl player. He's an incredibly valuable part of this team. ... He went to college at FIU. His dream team is the Dolphins.
"Hopefully, everything works out where he can stay in Miami."
What Smith hopes works out is a new deal with the Dolphins. The tight end inked a two-year contract in Miami in 2024 worth $8.4 million. He's set to earn a base salary of $3.49 million in 2025 and count $4.64 million against the cap.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport noted last week on "The Pat McAfee Show" that Smith wants more money to stay with the Dolphins. Rapoport added that Smith wants "a lot" coming off a Pro Bowl campaign.
The cap-strapped Dolphins might not be in a position to pay Smith, hence the trade chatter. It's possible that the looming probability of a Jalen Ramsey trade could free up some money to be used on the tight end.
Smith generated 88 catches for 884 yards with eight touchdowns in his first season in Mike McDaniel's system, finishing first on the team in catches and touchdown grabs and second in receiving yards.
The Dolphins surely don't want to lose a key playmaker in the offense, particularly at a position with no proven backup on board. Ultimately, if it comes to it, the question is whether Smith would willing to sit out, potentially incurring fines, in order to try to squeeze Miami for a payday.
