Steelers New Star Did Not Participate Today After Donating Bl00d to Save His Mother’s Heart Valve Surgery

Pittsburgh, PA – The Steelers’ practice report came with a notable absence today, but the reason had nothing to do with game planning or snap counts. It was about family, sacrifice, and a gesture that transcends football.

According to team officials, a veteran tight end was excused after donating blood earlier this week to support his mother during a heart valve replacement surgery. He was listed as

Did Not Participate, with coaches emphasizing the decision was both personal and necessary.

That player is Jonnu Smith, acquired in June from the Miami Dolphins in the blockbuster trade that also sent Jalen Ramsey to Pittsburgh in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick. Smith has wasted little time carving out a role in Arthur Smith’s offense, marking the third stop where he’s played under the offensive coordinator who knows how to maximize his skill set.

Through the first four games of 2025, Smith has proven to be a reliable option for Aaron Rodgers. He owns a 92.3% catch rate (14 receptions on 16 targets) — one of the best among NFL tight ends — and scored a touchdown in Week 1 to set the tone. His chemistry with Arthur Smith is evident, as 41% of his career receptions have come under the OC’s schemes.

Statistically, his production has dipped compared to last season’s breakout with Miami. He has just 71 receiving yards (17.8 YDS/G) through four weeks, limited in part by competition for targets with Pat Freiermuth (7 receptions, 65 yards) and DK Metcalf (135 yards, 2 TDs).

Snap counts reflect his importance, though. He has led Steelers tight ends in playing time with an average of 58% of snaps through Weeks 1–3, before a hip injury in Week 4 reduced his role to 25%. It was the second physical setback this year, after a knee issue in preseason August 2025.

Still, his efficiency is undeniable. He hasn’t been asked to serve as a primary blocker in 2-TE sets, where Darnell Washington takes on that responsibility, but in passing situations he remains a trusted target for Rodgers.

Fantasy managers have tempered expectations. With just 13.1 fantasy points (PPR, 7.9 PPG), Smith currently ranks TE20 — a risky start outside of deep leagues. ESPN projects him as a TE2 moving forward, unlikely to replicate his 2024 explosion (884 yards, 88 catches, 18.6 PPG to finish the year).

Head coach Mike Tomlin voiced full support: “Jonnu’s absence today wasn’t about football. What he did for his mother speaks louder than any stat line. He’s a pro, and when he’s back on the field, he’ll be ready.”

For Steelers fans, Smith has already shown his value as both a steady offensive contributor and as a son willing to put family above the game. His story this week proves his character is as strong as his catch rate.