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Dolphins sign veteran Jonnu Smith, filling need for receiving tight end

Jonnu Smith is joining the Dolphins, filling a need for a pass-catching tight end that was created a year ago with the departure of Mike Gesicki.

Smith, a free agent, will receive a two-year deal at $4.075 million per year and a maximum value of $10 million to complement Durham Smythe, who primarily is used as a blocking tight end.

Smith, from Florida International, was a third-round pick of the Tennessee Titans in 2017. He spent four seasons in Tennessee before signing with New England for the 2021-22 seasons, then playing in Atlanta via trade last year.

In his career, Smith started 78 of 107 games played with 219 receptions, 2,423 yards (11.1 average) and 20 touchdowns.

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The Miami Dolphins are signing veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, according to reports.
The Miami Dolphins are signing veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, according to reports.

He’s coming off his most productive season as a receiver with 50 catches for 582 yards (11.6) and three scores. Smith also caught eight TD passes for the Titans in 2020.

Smith, who will turn 29 in August, is 6-feet-3 and 248 pounds. He attended West Port High in Ocala.

According to Pro Football Reference, Smith would become the first player from FIU to play for the Dolphins.

Smith suffered burns to his head, neck, back, shoulder and one arm in 2016 when his pregnant girlfriend poured boiling water on him, police said.

Dolphins reporter Hal Habib can be reached at  hhabib@pbpost.com. Follow him on social media @gunnerhal.

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This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jonnu Smith signs with Miami Dolphins fresh off most productive season