After a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, veteran tight end Jonnu Smith finds himself on the lookout for a new team. After being traded from the Miami Dolphins before the 2025 season, Smith spent the year as a rotational player in a talented group of tight ends. Now, as he reflects on his time with the Steelers, Smith shares his thoughts on the experience and the impact of coach Mike Tomlin.
Smith, a former Pro-Bowler, was initially brought in to help bolster the Steelers’ tight end depth. However, with the emergence of younger players, his role became more limited. Despite this, Smith remained positive and focused on doing whatever he could to contribute to the team’s success.
In a recent interview with NFL Insider, Smith opened up about his time in Pittsburgh and his thoughts on coach Tomlin. “I have nothing but respect for Coach Tomlin,” Smith said. “He’s a great leader and knows how to get the best out of his players. Even though my role was limited, I learned a lot from him and his coaching style.”
Tomlin, known for his no-nonsense approach, has a reputation for being tough on his players. However, Smith saw a different side of the coach. “Coach Tomlin is a tough coach, but he also knows how to build a personal connection with his players. He genuinely cares about their well-being and success on and off the field,” Smith shared.
Despite his limited playing time, Smith relished the opportunity to be a part of the Steelers’ organization. “It’s an amazing feeling to be a part of such a storied franchise like the Steelers. The atmosphere in the locker room and on the field is unlike any other. I am grateful for the experience and the friendships I have made,” Smith said.
As he looks to continue his career with a new team, Smith credits his time with the Steelers for helping him grow as a player and as a person. “Being a part of the Steelers organization has made me a better player and a better person. I have learned so much from my time here and will carry those lessons with me wherever I go,” Smith shared.
Despite the challenges he faced during his time with the Steelers, Smith remains positive and determined to find success with his next team. “I am excited for the next chapter of my career. I am confident that my experience with the Steelers has prepared me for whatever comes next,” Smith said.
As for his thoughts on where he may end up, Smith is keeping an open mind. “I am just keeping my options open and waiting for the right opportunity. I am looking forward to joining a new team and making a positive impact,” he said.
In conclusion, although his time with the Steelers may have been short-lived, Jonnu Smith has nothing but positive things to say about his experience. From learning from a great coach like Mike Tomlin to being a part of a prestigious organization, Smith’s time in Pittsburgh has helped shape him into a better player and person. As he moves forward in his career, Smith will undoubtedly carry the lessons and memories from his time with the Steelers with him, making him a valuable asset to any team.
