The Miami Dolphins have made their inaugural signing of the 2024 offseason, securing tight end Jonnu Smith on a 2-year contract potentially valued at $10 million, per Adam Schefter. This move was anticipated, given reports of ongoing negotiations between Smith and the team, which surfaced approximately 48 hours prior. General manager Chris Grier has been diligently working to alleviate cap constraints, initially exceeding $50 million above the cap. By parting ways with linebacker Jerome Baker, defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah, and announcing the forthcoming release of cornerback Xavien Howard on June 1st, Grier has successfully cleared around $42 million in cap space for the 2024 season. These financial maneuvers set the stage for signings like Smith and potentially a significant extension for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Smith’s addition to Mike McDaniel’s offensive strategy addresses the need for a proficient pass-catching tight end. Over seven NFL seasons, Smith has amassed 219 receptions for 2,423 yards and 20 touchdowns, having been drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2017 and subsequently playing for the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons.
Although McDaniel has yet to heavily utilize tight ends in the passing game during his two seasons as the Dolphins’ head coach, Smith’s signing suggests a potential shift in strategy for the 2024 season. As an athletic 28-year-old, Smith complements current starter Durham Smythe, who is primarily utilized as a blocker. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 250 lbs, Smith possesses the ability to overpower defenders and provide a significant presence in the red zone, an area where the Dolphins have been lacking. Additionally, Smith’s speed, a coveted trait for McDaniel’s offensive weapons, was evident in notable plays, such as a 60-yard touchdown last season where he reached a speed of 21.15 mph, ranking as the third-fastest speed by a tight end since Next Gen Stats began tracking in 2016. His knack for extending plays after the catch likely contributed to Grier and McDaniel’s interest in acquiring him.
The Dolphins’ acquisition of Smith on a favorable contract not only bolsters their offensive arsenal but also diminishes reliance on Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, providing Tagavailoa with another dependable option, particularly in the red zone. With this signing, the Dolphins have initiated the free agency period and the 2024 offseason on a promising note.