The Steelers acquired Smith in a June 30 trade with the Miami Dolphins that also brought defensive back Jalen Ramsey. The only other tight end the club added in 2025 aside from Smith was undrafted rookie JJ Galbreath, making Dulac’s suggestion likely about the veteran pass-catcher.
In 2025, Smith appeared to split snaps with Pat Freiermuth, finishing with 38 receptions for 222 yards and a 5.8-yard average per catch — the lowest yardage total of his career since 2017. Those rough numbers come as Smith’s role on offense was reduced at times, with Freiermuth remaining the more consistent target.
Industry observers highlighted Smith’s struggles as a primary factor in any potential departure. Alan Saunders of Steelers Now labeled Smith “the worst TE in the NFL in yards per target” over the past six years and noted a poor run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus this season. Smith also carries a one-year remaining deal with a $10.87 million cap hit if kept on the roster next season.
Releasing Smith would clear significant cap space, saving about $7 million against the 2026 salary cap, and would allow the Steelers to lean on Freiermuth and rookie Darnell Washington as the top two tight ends, with Connor Heyward possible as additional depth. Arthur Smith’s departure from Pittsburgh reduces the likelihood that a longtime associate would influence Smith’s future, further supporting the view that Smith is the obvious first-cut candidate this offseason.
