The Miami Dolphins have had quite a surprising week. It started on Monday when they traded Jalen Ramsey to the Steelers, a move that was expected from a mile away. However, trading Jonnu Smith was completely unexpected, leaving fans in shock. The tight end is coming off a career year, and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, made it clear that Smith wanted to stay in Miami.
“Jonnu would definitely like to stay in Miami. That’s his first choice,” Rosenhaus said, via Miami Herald reporter Barry Jackson. “This is where he lives in the offseason. He had a record-breaking season last year... His dream team is the Dolphins.”
The Steelers have been very persistent in pursuing Smith, engaging in trade talks with the Dolphins since early June. By the end of the month, they were finally close to striking a deal for the tight end. Recently, Smith revealed what happened that allowed the trade to go through—even after he had made it clear he wanted to remain a Dolphin.
“Eventually it came a point and time when they told me they can’t do it,” Smith said. “I had to make the decision to go where I’m appreciated and viewed on paper, economically, contract-wise as a top guy in this league which I know I am. Pittsburgh was the team that saw me as that.”
It seems the Dolphins were honest with Smith, which he deserves after the season he had. Now, he is reunited with Arthur Smith, whom he has played for on three different teams.
In response to trading Smith, the Dolphins made a surprising move the next day by trading for retired tight end Darren Waller. This shocked many, as there were arguably better options available on the trade block. Possibly, Miami felt rushed to bring a seasoned veteran into their tight end room.
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