March 4, 2026, 10:32 p.m. PT
The Steelers released tight end Jonnu Smith on Wednesday, and he is already being linked to the Chargers after formerly playing under Mike McDaniel.
Under McDaniel, Smith recorded 88 catches for 884 yards with eight touchdowns in 2024 as a member of the Miami Dolphins. He signed a two-year, $10 million contract in March 2024 and quickly became a key part of McDaniel’s offense.
Despite his success during his inaugural season in Miami, Smith believed the Dolphins didn’t value him, and he was traded to the Steelers in June the following year.
“I didn’t foresee this happening with how the season went for me individually,” Smith said on retired Dolphins offensive tackle Terron Armstead’s podcast. “Obviously I had aspirations of ending my career in Miami, with it basically being home for me, my children, my family. But I understand the business side of it, and it didn’t work out. I’m grateful. I’ve got no ill feelings toward Miami and nobody in the organization.
“I can’t sit here and lie and say it didn’t sting when the process was playing itself out.”
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Now, there’s a chance Smith could reunite with McDaniel in Los Angeles as both he and his former coach seek fresh starts in 2026.
After a whirlwind 2024 season with the Dolphins, Smith’s play declined the following year with the Steelers. He recorded just 222 receiving yards and two touchdowns in his only season with Pittsburgh.
Releasing the 30-year-old this spring saves the Steelers around $7 million in cap space. Perhaps the Chargers will take a chance on Smith after releasing Will Dissly to play alongside Oronde Gadsden II.