Steelers Tight End Jonnu Smith Misses Practice After Donating Blood for Mother’s Heart Valve Surgery
Pittsburgh, PA — October 3, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice report revealed a notable absence today, but it stemmed from a selfless act rather than football strategy. Team officials confirmed that veteran tight end Jonnu Smith was excused after donating blood earlier this week to aid his mother’s heart valve replacement surgery, earning him a Did Not Participate designation.
Smith, acquired from the Miami Dolphins in June as part of a blockbuster trade that also brought Jalen Ramsey to Pittsburgh in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick, has quickly become a key piece in offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system—his third stint under the coach who maximizes his talents. Through the first four games of 2025, Smith has been a dependable target for Aaron Rodgers, boasting a 92.3% catch rate (14 catches on 16 targets), ranking among the NFL’s top tight ends, with a Week 1 touchdown setting the tone. His synergy with Arthur Smith is clear, with 41% of his career receptions coming under the OC’s guidance.
However, his stats this season lag behind last year’s breakout with Miami. He’s recorded 71 receiving yards (17.8 YDS/G) over four weeks, partly due to competition from Pat Freiermuth (7 catches, 65 yards) and DK Metcalf (135 yards, 2 TDs). Snap counts underscore his role, leading Steelers tight ends with 58% of snaps in Weeks 1-3, though a Week 4 hip injury dropped him to 25%. He also battled a knee issue in August’s preseason.
Smith isn’t a primary blocker in two-tight-end sets—Darnell Washington handles that—excelling instead as a pass-catching option. Fantasy managers have lowered expectations, with Smith at TE20 (13.1 fantasy points, 7.9 PPG), projected as a TE2 by ESPN, unlikely to match his 2024 surge (884 yards, 88 catches, 18.6 PPG).
Head coach Mike Tomlin praised the decision: “Jonnu’s absence today wasn’t about the game. His sacrifice for his mother outweighs any stat line. He’s a true professional and will be back ready when cleared.” For Steelers Nation, Smith’s act of donating blood highlights his character as much as his on-field contributions.
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