Steelers TE Jonnu Smith Suffers Knee Injury
The Pittsburgh Steelers will be missing a key offensive player after tight end Jonnu Smith was forced to leave practice early.
PITTSBURGH – The Steelers have already been dealing with multiple injuries during training camp, affecting both starters and depth players. In their latest practice, kicking off the third week of camp, Smith, the tight end, had to exit early due to knee soreness, as confirmed by head coach Mike Tomlin. While it’s still unclear how long Smith will be sidelined, the team plans to monitor his condition closely. At this point, the injury doesn’t seem to be serious, but it could keep one of the team’s top pass-catchers out for the remainder of the preseason.
After the injury, Smith walked off the field without limping and made his way to the sideline, eventually heading to the golf carts. 
Smith is currently listed as a starter alongside Pat Freiermuth at tight end, with Darnell Washington filling the other spot. The Pro Bowler, who previously played for the Miami Dolphins, had a standout season in 2024. He’s now reunited with his former head coach, Arthur Smith, who has coached him for most of his career.
The Steelers pursued Smith ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft and eventually acquired him and cornerback Jalen Ramsey in a trade for Minkah Fitzpatrick and a fifth-round pick. Smith’s connection to Arthur Smith could provide an added advantage in his role with the team.
If Smith is unavailable, the Steelers will turn to Freiermuth and Washington as their primary tight ends. Both are expected to see action with the first-team during the preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but their playing time will likely be limited.
Other players, like Connor Heyward, DJ Thomas-Jones, and J.J. Galbreath, are expected to get more reps. Heyward, who is likely to secure a spot on the 53-man roster, will be the fourth tight end on the depth chart. Thomas-Jones and Galbreath have impressed during camp and are vying for a spot on the roster.
The Steelers have two more practices before their game against Jacksonville, but it’s unlikely that Smith, along with injured starters Calvin Austin and Alex Highsmith, will see much, if any, action before the regular season.
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