Dolphins HC McDaniel Backs Jonnu Smith as Contract Talks Loom

‘Jonnu is a very important player [and] person, to me and to the guys,’ McDaniel told media.

Jonnu Smith #9 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New England Patriots during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla., on Nov. 24, 2024. Megan Briggs/Getty Images

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel wants to keep tight end Jonnu Smith on the team.

Smith bounced around the league for several years before having a career year with the Dolphins in 2024. Now, the veteran tight end is looking for a long-term extension. At a press conference at OTA’s practice on Tuesday, McDaniel refrained from interfering on the business side of the game but stressed his value to the team.