The Pittsburgh Steelers are keeping their eyes on the Miami Dolphins , who have two star players absent from mandatory minicamp.
The Miami Dolphins were without two key veterans on the first day of mandatory minicamp, as tight end Jonnu Smith and cornerback Jalen Ramsey were both no-shows. That has only further fueled the trade speculation involving the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Smith's absence is reportedly contract-related. After a career-best season in 2024, where he recorded 88 receptions for 884 yards and set the Dolphins' single-season record for catches by a tight end, the 29-year-old is seeking a new deal.
Last offseason, he signed a two-year, $4 million contract that now looks like a major bargain given his production and impact in Mike McDaniel's offense. As the situation drags on without a resolution, Smith remains a name to watch, especially for the Steelers, who have been consistently linked to him in recent months.
On the surface, tight end isn't a glaring need in Pittsburgh. The Steelers already feature a solid duo in Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington . However, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has long favored heavy tight end personnel, and Smith is already familiar with his system, having played under him in both Tennessee and Atlanta .
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith at OTAs on May 29, 2025. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Meanwhile, Ramsey's absence is more direct, as he's reportedly seeking a trade. The 30-year-old cornerback is entering his 10th NFL season and remains one of the league's premier defensive backs. A seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro, Ramsey is still under contract through 2028 on a deal worth $72 million.
A potential Steelers secondary featuring Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr. , and Darius Slay would be among the most talented in the league, offering head coach Mike Tomlin a rare combination of experience and youth on the back end. However, such a move would likely require cap gymnastics and could complicate contract discussions with other stars, namely All-Pro pass rusher T.J. Watt , who is still awaiting a contract extension .
While the Steelers have more pressing roster needs and contractual priorities, the idea of landing both Smith and Ramsey isn't out of the realm of possibility. If Pittsburgh believes it is in a win-now window, these two veterans could be difference-makers in a wide-open AFC North.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Jonnu Smith, Jalen Ramsey Absent From Dolphins Minicamp Amid Trade Buzz
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