While the 2026 NFL season is rapidly approaching, there are still free agents available on the market who could make an impact on current rosters, and the San Francisco 49ers are a team that may want to explore the external market, especially for pass catchers with the uncertainty of George Kittle’s Week 1 status, and other receivers being down with injuries throughout training camp.
Recently, in a piece for BleacherReport.com, NFL writer Kristopher Knox named the 49ers as a ‘logical landing spot’ for tight end Jonnu Smith, and it could be worth pondering for the Niners’ GM John Lynch.
Should the 49ers Sign Jonnu Smith?
GettyPITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 15: Jonnu Smith #81 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium on December 15, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Jonnu Smith didn’t have the most productive campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025, but he’s just two years removed from a Pro Bowl selection, and it’s not like he was a featured option in the Steelers receiver room.
He wouldn’t be with the 49ers either, but as Knox headlines his piece, Smith is a ‘Bargain Free Agent’, which means he would not cost much.
Here is what Knox wrote about Jonnu Smith:
“While the 31-year-old is unlikely to replicate his 2024 production (884 yards, 8 TDs), he’d be a terrific insurance policy for a pass-heavy team with injury concerns at the tight end position. The 49ers could partner Smith with Jake Tonges as George Kittle continues to work his way back from a torn Achilles.”
Again, while George Kittle is hopeful to be ready by the start of the season, San Francisco would like to play it safe with their top pass catchers, especially with such an important season ahead. Smith is a good depth option who could sign for something just above the league minimum.
Looking at Jonnu Smith’s NFL Career
GettyEAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JANUARY 05: Jonnu Smith #9 of the Miami Dolphins is tackled by Ashtyn Davis #21 of the New York Jets in the first quarter at MetLife Stadium on January 05, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
If Jonnu Smith does happen to sign with an NFL team before the 2026 campaign begins, which should be likely considering he’s played in 17 games in each of the past three seasons, it would be Smith’s 10th season as a tight end.
He spent the first four years of his career with the Tennessee Titans, then the next three with the New England Patriots before jumping to the Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins, and Pittsburgh Steelers (all for one season).
Across his nine NFL seasons, Jonnu Smith has 345 receptions for 3529 total receiving yards and 30 career touchdowns.
In 2025 with the Steelers, Smith hauled in 38 catches for 222 yards and two touchdowns.
San Francisco 49ers Named ‘Landing Spot’ for 9-Year NFL Veteran Pass Catcher