Steelers’ Ambitious Trade Collapses as Playoff Hopes Wane
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the offseason with high hopes, believing they had struck gold in their dealings with the Miami Dolphins. The team bid farewell to safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a fifth-round draft pick, welcoming defensive back Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith in return. At first glance, it appeared to be a masterstroke for the Steelers. Despite the loss of a star player in Fitzpatrick, acquiring two prominent figures promised to enhance both their offense and defense.
Dwindling Optimism in Week 15
As the season progresses into Week 15, however, that initial optimism has evaporated. With a record of 7-6, the Steelers currently sit atop the AFC North, but their performance tells a different story. The reality is stark: they are an average team at best. Their defense has struggled significantly, and the offense has failed to impress.
One major issue plaguing the offense is the lack of effective utilization of their key playmakers, particularly Jonnu Smith. Once recognized as a Pro Bowl tight end, Smith has found himself relegated to a non-factor role. This decline is particularly concerning, as both his base salary and salary cap hit are set to increase next season.
A Failed Experiment
The situation is a bitter pill for the Steelers to swallow. Smith’s underwhelming performance cannot be pinned solely on him; the team’s overall strategy and execution have faltered. What started as a promising experiment in Pittsburgh has turned into a regrettable miscalculation. As it stands, the Steelers face a pressing question: can they afford to carry Smith on their roster into 2026, given the current trajectory of his contributions?
As the playoff picture begins to take shape, the Steelers must grapple with the reality of their situation. The ambitious trades that once seemed like a coup for the franchise now feel like a weight dragging them down as they navigate the challenges ahead.
