Giants Urged to Target Pro Bowl Tight End Jonnu Smith in Trade
The New York Giants’ last attempt to land a top-tier tight end didn’t pan out — Darren Waller lasted just one season before retiring unexpectedly — but that failure shouldn’t stop them from pursuing another high-impact upgrade at the position. With Daniel Bellinger still struggling and no clear answer on the roster, the team could benefit greatly from a move for a proven playmaker like Jonnu Smith.
Bellinger, Johnson Yet to Deliver
Since being selected in the fourth round of the 2022 draft, Bellinger has battled injuries and inconsistency, leaving a void at a key offensive position. Last year’s fourth-round pick, Theo Johnson, has shown flashes and is seen as a potential breakout candidate — but that remains speculative at best.
CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan suggests the Giants should shift from banking on unproven talent and instead make a move for Smith, who earned Pro Bowl honors with the Miami Dolphins in 2024.
Why the Giants’ QB Room Needs Smith
The Giants have a crowded quarterback room: Russell Wilson is set to start, first-round rookie Jaxson Dart is developing behind him, and veteran backup Jameis Winston adds depth. Regardless of who’s under center, Sullivan argues that a reliable tight end is essential — especially given Wilson’s historical reliance on the position.
Right now, Johnson sits atop the depth chart, but his inexperience makes him far from a lock. According to Sullivan, if Johnson replicates his rookie performance, Smith could easily become the No. 2 target behind star rookie wideout Malik Nabers.
Smith Brings Versatility and Playmaking
Smith is coming off a stellar season in Miami, where he posted a career-high 88 receptions and routinely turned short catches into big gains. He averaged 5.8 yards after the catch per reception, per Pro Football Reference, and forced eight missed tackles — his second-best single-season total.
He also offers elite flexibility. In Week 10 against the Rams, he scored a 33-yard touchdown after lining up in the slot, showcasing the receiver-like skills he brings in a tight end’s frame. According to Player Profiler, Smith lined up in the slot for 227 snaps last year, making him a matchup nightmare that the Giants currently lack.
Jonnu Smith
Bellinger’s Future in Question
Bellinger’s spot on the roster is far from secure. He hasn’t delivered as either a pass-catcher or blocker, and injuries — including an eye surgery during his rookie year — have derailed his development. His production has declined each season, with just 14 catches on 17 targets in 2024.
With Johnson, Greg Dulcich, Chris Manhertz, and rookie Thomas Fidone II already on the roster, the Giants may have little reason to keep Bellinger around — especially if they can add a dynamic playmaker like Smith.
Can the Giants Afford Him?
Smith is looking for a new contract before hitting free agency in 2026. He earned $3.49 million last season, according to Spotrac, and will be seeking a raise. With only $4.3 million in cap space, the Giants would need to get creative — but GM Joe Schoen should explore every option to add a tight end who is clearly more athletic and more productive than anyone currently on the roster.
If the Giants want to help their quarterbacks and take pressure off Nabers, Jonnu Smith could be the missing piece.
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