Smith, projected to share or replace Waller’s role in 2025, represents the complementary TE dynamic in Miami’s attack and offers a benchmark for bench-or-start decisions alongside Waller.

Smith led Miami in receptions and TDs in 2024 before being traded to the Steelers on June 30; his exit opened a clear path for Waller to anchor the Dolphins’ tight end role in 2025.

Smith flashed as a versatile weapon with potential for expanded targets and red-zone usage, hinting at a larger role in the Dolphins' offense if his path is leveraged consistently.

Jonnu Smith’s 2024 TE surge with the Dolphins underscored Miami’s openness to utilizing tight ends in a big way. His 88 receptions and eight TDs highlighted the potential for multiple TEs to thrive in McDaniel’s system. Waller’s arrival adds a new dynamic, but Smith remains a relevant fantasy asset whose role could shift with Waller’s fit and health.

Smith is listed as out, narrowing the list of trusted targets and pressuring the depth at tight end to contribute in the absence of a primary passing option.