Miami Dolphins enthusiasts have only glimpsed the potential impact of Jonnu Smith within Mike McDaniel’s strategy, as the notable offseason acquisition has yet to appear in a preseason match. However, training sessions have provided a showcase for Smith, and his performances there have drawn commendation from at least one seasoned Dolphins player.
Running back Raheem Mostert, in a recent interaction with the press, elucidated on various new offensive additions, emphasizing Smith’s capabilities. Mostert highlighted Smith’s exceptional blocking skills, noteworthy speed for his size, and overall potential contributions to the Dolphins’ offense, noting, “Absolutely. I can’t remember a talent like him ever being on this team.”
The anticipation around Smith’s integration into the Dolphins’ playbook is palpable. His wide skill set makes him adaptable in many offensive situations.
Known for reliable catching and creating offensive space, Smith also adeptly uses his physical presence to ward off defenders. His versatility extends to proficient blocking, a trait that adds an extra layer of utility to his game.
Questions linger about Coach McDaniel’s ability to maximize Smith’s role, particularly after last season’s challenges with utilizing Mike Gesicki primarily as a slot receiver. During McDaniel’s tenure, the tight end rotation saw Durham Smythe and undrafted rookie Julian Hill as primary options, with Smythe providing solid yet not transformative performances and Hill still climbing the developmental curve.
Jonnu Smith, with his rich experience and impressive statistics, seems poised to eclipse these previous standards, bringing a higher caliber of play to the tight end position under McDaniel’s direction. With the regular season’s start on the horizon, how McDaniel employs Smith’s skills in the Dolphins’ offensive scheme will be crucial. The integration of Smith could potentially redefine the tight end’s role in Miami, promising exciting developments as the season progresses.