Phins Fans’ Emotional Jonnu Rollercoaster
The Miami Dolphins’ tight end situation has been anything but predictable this offseason, and it’s driving fans crazy. What was once seen as a quiet, stable position has turned into a whirlwind of conflicting reports, rumors, and, yes, even some frustration. The centerpiece of this drama: Jonnu Smith, the Dolphins’ standout tight end who went from being rumored to be traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, to a sudden halt in talks, only to find those trade discussions swirling again following a season-ending injury to Steelers’ tight end, Donald Parham Jr.
The Rollercoaster of Trade Rumors
Initially, the trade seemed like a sure thing—Smith, entering the final year of his contract, was rumored to be a prime candidate for trade. The target: the Pittsburgh Steelers, who were reportedly looking to bolster their tight end group.
For Dolphins fans, the news hit like a sledgehammer and while it was a hot debate most had come to accept it as a done deal.
Then, as quickly as the trade talk had started, it all came to a screeching halt. The Steelers, having made initial inquiries, reportedly backed off from trade discussions, citing salary cap concerns and their uncertainty about taking on Smith’s contract. It seemed like a classic Dolphins move—fluctuating between hope and despair, never really knowing what the next turn would bring. Phins fans emotional whiplash at its best.
Then Dolphins luck kicked in!
The Steelers’ Injury and the Renewed Trade Talk
Just when fans thought the saga had quieted down, another bombshell dropped. Steelers’ tight end Donald Parham Jr. suffered a devastating Achilles injury during OTAs, effectively ending his season. With their tight end depth now severely compromised, the Steelers revived talks to acquire Smith, once again re-opening the trade rumors.
For Dolphins fans, it felt like déjà vu—except this time, it wasn’t just about the possibility of losing a player. It was about the uncertainty of whether the Dolphins were truly committed to keeping Smith or if they would let him go for the right offer. The emotional rollercoaster hit full force, as fans wondered if their team was truly going to keep one of their top weapons or pull the trigger on a trade that could reshape the offense.
The Financial Tug-of-War
While the emotional side of the trade talks has taken a toll on Dolphins fans, there’s also the practical matter of finances. Smith’s contract, which will pay him $4.8 million in 2025, has been a point of contention in the discussions. The Dolphins might want to keep him, but the looming question is whether they can make the necessary cap room to keep the star tight end, especially with their focus shifting toward other areas of need. Smith is also looking for a raise, which complicates matters further.
For Dolphins fans, it’s another chapter in the frustrating saga of a player whose future remains uncertain, despite his critical role in Miami’s offense.
What’s Next for the Dolphins and Jonnu?
As mandatory minicamp looms, you can bet with the best pay per head that Dolphins find themselves at a very familiar and uncomfortable crossroads.
Do they keep Jonnu, potentially navigating cap space issues, or do they part ways with him for a trade that could benefit the team’s future?
For now, the team seems content to let the situation play out, but for Phins fans, the constant emotional ups and downs have made this trade saga one of the most exhausting offseasons in recent memory.
One thing’s for sure: the rollercoaster ride isn’t over yet.