Why The Dolphins Were Right To Let Other Teams Negotiate Jonnu’s Contract For Them

Jonnu Smith was one of the highlights of 2024. He set Miami Dolphins franchise records in every category, receptions, yards, and touchdowns. He preformed so good, in fact, that he thought he was entitled to a raise. Operating in the first year of his brand new contract, Smith was the 30th highest paid tight end in the league while he contributed the fourth most yards. Maybe he has a point?

Regardless, the big brass for the Dolphins isn’t biting. It is reported that Smith wants “a lot” after his impressive 2024 season, but ultimately wants to stay in South Beach. Now one writer is saying it’s a good thing for all parties involved if Miami lets Smith find out how much he’s worth.

“So why not actively assess Smith’s market?” asked writer Kyle Crabbs. “By gauging the league’s temperature and interest in Smith, the Dolphins can get a better idea of what his earning potential is elsewhere — and use it to hone their offers to find a contract agreement that is an accurate portrayal of his value.”

Because the relationship with the Dolphins, Smith, and agent Drew Rosenhaus is so strong, everybody wins by allowing Miami to essentially ‘price match’ with team’s around the league. Unless someone out there is willing to drop a bag on the 30-year-old tight end, Miami might find out that what they were willing to offer him is actually too much.

“The most likely outcome at this stage? The trade discussions and subsequent conversations about new contract values that other teams are willing to offer will help Smith and the Dolphins close the ground on their differences to find a compromise that both sides can feel good about,” Crabbs concluded.

Jonnu Smith’s Current Contract

As previously mentioned, Smith just finished his first year of a two year deal worth only $8 million. He is set to bring in just over $3 million of that this season, an incredibly light hit.

His world famous agent says that he prefers to remain with the Phins.

“Here’s what I will say on behalf of my client: Jonnu would definitely like to stay in Miami,” Rosenhaus said, via the Miami Herald. “That’s his first choice. This is where he lives in the offseason. He had a record-breaking season last year. It was the best season ever for a Miami Dolphin tight end… He’s an incredibly valuable part of this team. … He went to college at FIU. His dream team is the Dolphins.”

Mike McDaniel Loves Jonnu

To nobody’s surprise, head coach Mike McDaniel is a big fan of the speedy tight end. McDaniel is a known player’s coach, but his love for Jonnu goes beyond typical coach speak. Every quote he provides about the NFL vet is a glowing review.

“Jonnu is a very important player and person to me and to the guys. One thing that we can stand on is his professionalism and how he goes about his business,” McDaniel said. “There’s times that business can play a part, for sure, and a team can make it as complicated as they would like.”