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Packers Sign Jonnu Smith to One-Year Deal

8/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Green Bay Packers signed veteran tight end Jonnu Smith to a one-year contract.
Smith recorded 38 receptions for 222 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games with the Steelers in 2025.
He earned a 2024 Pro Bowl after catching 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns with the Dolphins.
He is expected to back up Tucker Kraft and give quarterback Jordan Love a reliable receiving option.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the New England Patriots, still reshaping after Bill Parcells’ 1993 hiring and Robert Kraft’s 1994 purchase, had tight end Ben Coates, who had become Drew Bledsoe’s favorite target during the mid-1990s. Coates helped the Patriots improve to an 8–8 record that season, illustrating the league’s long-standing reliance on veteran tight ends to steady passing attacks.

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Story summary

The Green Bay Packers signed veteran tight end Jonnu Smith to a one-year contract.
Smith recorded 38 receptions for 222 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games with the Steelers in 2025.
He earned a 2024 Pro Bowl after catching 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns with the Dolphins.
He is expected to back up Tucker Kraft and give quarterback Jordan Love a reliable receiving option.

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