Jonnu Smith Injury News & Updates

Smith failed to secure either of his two targets during Sunday's 34-12 win over the Bengals.

Smith has struggled to carve out much of a role to begin his time with the Steelers, and he's been especially uninvolved in the passing game over the past two weeks, as he's secured just one of four targets for four yards during that time. Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington have been slightly more reliable recently, leaving Smith as a shaky fantasy option heading into the final month and a half of the regular season.

Smith secured one of two targets for four yards during Sunday's 25-10 loss to the Chargers.

Although Smith led Pittsburgh's tight ends by playing 67 percent of the team's offensive snaps Sunday, he had a season-worst performance in primetime. He was held to season-low marks in receptions, targets and receiving yards, although none of the team's tight ends recorded more than 33 yards in the defeat. The Steelers' passing game hasn't been stellar despite the offseason addition of Aaron Rodgers, and Smith's fantasy upside has been minimal with his new team.

Smith secured three of five targets for 25 yards during Sunday's 27-20 win over the Colts.

While Smith saw a slight uptick in production during Sunday's Week 9 victory, he's still been held under 30 yards in each of his first eight appearances of the 2025 campaign. He was a strong fantasy option with the Dolphins last year, but his fantasy production to begin his time with Pittsburgh has been dependent on whether he reaches the end zone, which has happened on just two occasions in 2025.

Smith secured two of three targets for 17 yards during Sunday's 35-25 loss to the Packers.

Although Smith led the Steelers' tight ends in playing time by taking the field for 60 percent of the team's offensive snaps, he had yet another disappointing performance as a pass catcher. The 2017 third-rounder has been held under 30 receiving yards in each of his first seven appearances of the season. In total, he's secured 22 of 29 targets for 134 yards and two touchdowns, putting him well off the pace of his career-best season with the Dolphins last year in which he secured 88 of 111 targets for 884 yards and eight touchdowns.

Smith secured three of six targets for 28 yards and a touchdown during Thursday's 33-31 loss to the Bengals.

Although Smith's fantasy production remained somewhat limited Thursday, he tied for the team lead with six targets, which matched his season-best mark, while also racking up a season-high 28 receiving yards in the loss. Over the first six games of the 2025 campaign, Smith has secured 20 of 26 targets for 117 yards and two touchdowns while rushing once for 10 yards, putting him well behind the pace he set with the Dolphins last year, when he secured 88 of 111 targets for 884 yards and eight scores. Smith has split work with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington early in the season, and the three tight ends will be difficult to rely on in fantasy as long as that trend continues.

Smith secured three of four targets for 18 yards while rushing once for 10 yards during Sunday's 23-9 win over Cleveland.

Smith was on the field for just 25 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in Week 4, but he saw a much larger workload following the team's Week 5 bye. He played 69 percent of the team's offensive snaps against Cleveland, which still lagged behind Darnell Washington's 80 percent, but it signaled that Smith appears to have moved past the hip injury that plagued him ahead of Week 4. Over Smith's first five appearances of the season, he's secured 17 of 20 targets for 89 yards and a touchdown while rushing once for 10 yards.

Smith secured two of three targets for six yards during Sunday's 24-21 win over the Vikings.

Smith was unable to practice fully ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 4 matchup due to a hip injury, but he played through the issue in Dublin. The 2017 third-rounder was held to single-digit yards for the first time this season while playing just 25 percent of the team's offensive snaps, which was his lowest mark of the season by a considerable margin. It seems possible that Smith's role was limited by his injury, but he'll be able to recover during the Steelers' Week 5 bye.

Smith (hip) is active for Sunday's game against the Vikings in Dublin, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Smith wasn't able to practice fully at any point during Week 4 and took a questionable tag into Sunday, but his hip issue isn't expected to limit him in Ireland. The tight end has seen ample involvement through the Steelers' first three games, playing at least 55 percent of snaps in every contest while accruing a 12-65-1 receiving line on 13 targets.

Smith (hip) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Vikings, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

Smith logged a pair of limited practices Thursday and Friday following a DNP due to rest on Wednesday. If the veteran tight end is unable to play in Dublin, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington would handle tight-end duties for Pittsburgh. Smith is averaging a career-worst 5.4 yards per catch this season but does have 12 grabs for 65 yards and one touchdown through three games.

Smith (hip/rest) was limited in Thursday's practice.

The hip issue is new for Smith after he was listed as a DNP due to rest only Wednesday. However, the limited practice would suggest Smith has a chance to play Sunday morning against the Vikings unless he was injured in Thursday's session. If Smith were unable to go, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington would handle tight-end duties for the Steelers.

Smith secured all three of his targets for 23 yards during Sunday's 21-14 win over New England.

Smith was on the field for 83 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps Sunday. However, the team had a lackluster performance through the air, and Smith wasn't particularly productive during the narrow victory. He also narrowly avoided disaster with the game tied in the fourth quarter, as he fumbled, but the ball went out of bounds. Smith has led Pittsburgh's tight ends in snaps over the first three weeks of the regular season, and he's secured 12 of 13 targets for 65 yards and a touchdown.

Smith recorded four receptions on four targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 31-17 loss to the Seahawks.

Smith saw his role as a pass catcher even out with Pat Freiermuth, as both tight ends earned four targets. As was the case in Week 1, Smith was used on short and quick passes with the goal of picking up yards after the catch. Smith's longest gain of the day went for only nine yards, and he has just 42 total yards on nine catches for the campaign.

Smith secured five of six targets for 15 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 34-32 win over the Jets.

Although Smith didn't have a particularly efficient performance during his team debut Sunday, he led the Steelers in receptions while reaching the end zone just before halftime. Smith was on the field for 66 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps, which outpaced fellow tight end Pat Freiermuth, who played 50 percent of the snaps. While the duo will likely continue to split some playing time this year, Smith is coming off a career-best season with the Dolphins in 2024 in which he secured 88 of 111 targets for 884 yards and eight touchdowns, and he has some fantasy upside in 2025 if he can establish a rapport with Aaron Rodgers.

Smith (knee) is not listed on Wednesday's practice report, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Smith missed time early August due to a knee injury, but he returned to practice Aug. 20 and is now at full health as Sunday's regular-season opener against the Jets approaches. Fresh off a career-best campaign in which he tallied an 88-884-8 receiving line across 17 regular-season appearances with the Dolphins, Smith is now positioned to work alongside Pat Freiermuth as one of the Steelers' top tight ends. While the Steelers don't have much in the way of proven pass-catches for quarterback Aaron Rodgers behind WR DK Metcalf, the fact that Smith and Freiermuth will split snaps is a notable barrier to either tight end surfacing as a consistent weekly fantasy option.

Smith (knee) returned to practice Saturday, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

Smith left practice early Aug. 5 and hasn't done much since then, but his return for the first practice after Pittsburgh's final preseason game suggests he's on track to play Week 1 against the Jets. Uncertainty about his role remains the larger concern for fantasy, with Pat Freiermuth offering tough competition for playing time in single-TE formations.

Smith (knee) missed practice Tuesday, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin downplayed the injury after Smith's early exit from practice last Tuesday. The tight end took part in a light, non-padded practice the following day, but it seems he's still being held out from more strenuous sessions. Smith has plenty of time to get right before Week 1, at which point he and Pat Freiermuth will form one of the better TE duos in the league.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Thursday that Smith is among the players who won't play in Saturday's preseason opener against the Jaguars, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

The same goes for QB Aaron Rodgers, WR DK Metcalf, RB Jaylen Warren and TE Pat Freiermuth, as the Steelers plan to rest their key starters Saturday, unlike the Jaguars. After leaving Tuesday's practice due to knee soreness, Smith was back on the field Wednesday, which puts him in a position to be available for the team's Aug. 16 contest against the Buccaneers.

Smith (knee) is participating in Wednesday's non-padded practice, Alan Saunders of SteelersNow.com reports.

Even if the practice is just a walk-through, it's a good sign for Smith to be participating in any capacity just one day after exiting early due to knee soreness. A quick return to the field supports coach Mike Tomlin's statement from Tuesday saying that the knee issue didn't look serious. The real concern for Smith's fantasy value remains target share, with Pat Freiermuth offering fierce competition for snaps in single-TE formations.

Smith left Tuesday's practice due to knee soreness, with Steelers coach Mike Tomlin saying afterward that it doesn't seem serious, Nick Farabaugh of Penn Live reports.

Smith walked off the field with a trainer before the final period of Tuesday's practice. Not long after, Tomlin downplayed the injury when talking with reporters. Fellow tight end Darnell Washington should get more first-team reps alongside Pat Freiermuth if Smith ends up missing time beyond Tuesday.

Smith left Tuesday's practice early with a trainer, Alan Saunders of SteelersNow.com reports.

It sounds like he'll miss the final period of practice but didn't have any trouble walking off the field. Smith and Pat Freiermuth give Aaron Rodgers an impressive duo of pass catchers at tight end, but it's a situation that might not work out well in terms of Smith/Freiermuth getting enough targets to offer considerable fantasy value.

Smith (undisclosed) did team drills at practice Sunday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

A minor, unspecified injury limited Smith's involvement in the first few practices of training camp. The real concern for this season is how snaps and targets will be split between him and fellow Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth, after Smith came over from Miami in a late-June trade.

Smith (undisclosed) did limited individual drills at Friday's practice, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Thursday that Smith is considered day to day with an unspecified injury. Acquired in a late-June trade, Smith has only done light individual work during his first two practices in Pittsburgh. He and Pat Freiermuth give the Steelers an impressive pass-catching duo at tight end, but it remains to be seen if one of the two can take a large enough share of the targets to be worth starting in fantasy. Smith caught fire for Miami last October and stayed hot through the end of the year, ultimately catching more passes over the final eight games (53) than he'd caught in any of his previous seven NFL seasons (max. 50). His second-best receiving campaign was the year before, 2023 in Atlanta, where he put up 50-582-3 on 70 targets under current Steelers playcaller Arthur Smith.

Smith (undisclosed) didn't participate in team drills during Thursday's practice, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

The report notes that Smith worked in individual drills, with coach Mike Tomlin noting that the tight end is considered "day-to-day" with an unspecified injury. Once Smith is able to work fully, he'll look to build chemistry with QB Aaron Rodgers, while working as part of the Steelers' 1-2 TE punch, which also features Pat Freiermuth.

The Dolphins are trading Smith, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Steelers in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Smith was said to be unhappy with his contract in Miami following last year's career highs for catches, yards and touchdowns. A move to Pittsburgh reunites him with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who was the head coach in Atlanta when Jonnu Smith played there. It isn't an especially promising move for Smith's fantasy value, as the Steelers likely will run the ball a lot and already have Pat Freiermuth at tight end.

The Dolphins are trading Smith, CB Jalen Ramsey and a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Steelers in exchange for S Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Smith was said to be unhappy with his contract in Miami, following last year's career highs for catches, yards and touchdowns. A move to Pittsburgh reunites him with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who was the head coach in Atlanta when Jonnu Smith played there. It isn't an especially promising move for Smith's fantasy value, as the Steelers likely will run the ball a lot and already have Pat Freiermuth at tight end.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel said Tuesday that Smith, who did not attend voluntary OTAs, is not at mandatory minicamp and that his absence is not excused, James Palmer of 104.3 The Fan reports.

McDaniel said he "wouldn't get into personal matters" concerning Smith's absence, per C. Isaiah Smalls II of the Miami Herald, which comes in the wake of the tight end having expressed his desire for a reworked contract and subsequently been floated as a trade candidate. Smith broke out with a career-best 88-884-8 receiving line (111 targets) across 17 regular-season appearances with the Dolphins in 2024, establishing himself as a focal point of the passing game despite the presence of both Tyreek Hill (wrist) and Jaylen Waddle. He's heading into the final season of his two-year deal with Miami and is slated to carry just a $3.49 million base salary and $4.6 million cap hit for 2025, lesser figures than the likes of Austin Hooper, Will Dissly and Josh Oliver. It's possible Smith's holdout continues indefinitely if the Dolphins don't acquiesce to a contract adjustment that at least somewhat reflects his 2024 production.

The Dolphins have engaged in trade talks with Pittsburgh revolving around Smith, who is seeking a reworked contract after breaking out with a career-best 88 catches, 884 yards and eight scores on 111 targets across 17 regular-season games in 2024, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith, who earned the first Pro Bowl nod of his career in 2024 and set new franchise records at the tight end position for Miami in terms of essentially all pass-catching metrics, is currently heading into the final season of his two-year, $10 million contract with the team and slated for just a $3.49 million base salary in 2025. His involvement on offense came at the expense of star wideouts Tyreek Hill (wrist) and Jaylen Waddle, and was due in part to coach Mike McDaniel's offense uncharacteristically abandoning downfield aggression in favor of short-area targets to Smith and running back De'Von Achane. The Dolphins' willingness to engage in trade talks regarding Smith, even after his productive breakout, could signal a desire for the team to resume primarily featuring Hill and Waddle, though that will only be possible if Tua Tagovailoa (hip) can remain healthier and an O-line that lost LT Terron Armstead to retirement is able to take a step forward. Pittsburgh should be considered a real suitor despite th

Smith had nine receptions on 12 targets for 56 yards and a touchdown with a lost fumble in Sunday's 32-20 loss to the Jets.

Smith finished as the Dolphins' leading receiver across the board off of a season-high 12 targets. Despite losing one of Miami's two fumbles in the loss, the veteran tight end put a nice bow on career year after scoring his eighth touchdown in his first season playing for the Dolphins. The eight scores tied his previous high-water mark from 2020, but he set new bests in receptions (88) and yards (884) in 17 games. Smith's late-career resurgence has put the tight end on the map as a plus fantasy option after years of mediocrity.

Smith had three receptions on four targets for 26 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-3 win over Cleveland.

Smith continued his second-half surge with another strong fantasy effort Sunday. The veteran tight end inched closer to his career-high of eight touchdown receptions (2020) whilst padding an already impressive 79-828-7 receiving line in his first season with Miami. Smith remains a high-end play heading into a Week 18 matchup against the Jets next Sunday.

Smith pulled in all six of his targets for 62 yards in Sunday's 29-17 win over San Francisco.

Smith put together another solid fantasy line Sunday, especially for those in PPR formats. More notably, the 28-year-old set new single-season franchise records in receptions (76) and receiving yards (802) from the tight end position in his first season with the Dolphins, per Adam Beasley of Pro Football Network. Smith has been a revelation for both Miami and fantasy managers in 2024, making him a strong play against the Browns next Sunday.

Smith brought in nine of 11 targets for 48 yards and a touchdown in the Dolphins' 20-12 loss to the Texans on Sunday.

Smith was the Dolphins' leader in receptions and targets while checking in second in receiving yards. The veteran tight end has at least nine catches in three of his last four games, and his seven-yard touchdown grab with 4:30 remaining was Smith's fifth score in the last five contests as well. The FIU product heads into a Week 16 home matchup against the 49ers with a career-best 70 receptions and 740 receiving yards over 14 games, while his six touchdowns are the second most of his career.

Smith caught three of four targets for 44 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 32-26 overtime win over the Jets.

Smith stepped up in overtime after being blanked in regulation. He caught consecutive screen passes for gains of 20 and 14 yards, then scored the game-winning touchdown on a 10-yard catch five plays later. This was Smith's lowest yardage total since Week 8, but the surging tight end has 345 receiving yards and four touchdowns in his last four games. He'll look to stay hot in Week 15 against the Texans.

Smith brought in 10 of 11 targets for 113 yards in the Dolphins' 30-17 loss to the Packers on Thursday. He also committed a fumble but Miami kept possession.

Smith finished with team-high totals in receptions, receiving yards and targets with figures that either set or tied season highs. The veteran tight end's emergence in the Dolphins' offense has been a sight to behold, as he's now posted a 25-301-3 line on 30 targets in the last three games. Thanks to Thursday's production, Smith will carry new career highs in receptions (58) and receiving yards (648) into a Week 14 home matchup against the Jets on Sunday, Dec. 8.

Smith brought in nine of 11 targets for 87 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for no gain in the Dolphins' 34-15 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

Smith finished as the team leader in receptions and targets while checking in second in receiving yards on the afternoon. The veteran tight end is on the verge of locking in a career-best season; with Sunday's production, he now boasts a 48-535-4 line across 11 regular-season games, putting him within striking distance of the career-high 50 catches and 582 receiving yards he recorded over 17 regular-season games with the Falcons in 2023. Smith will look to get closer to or potentially surpass those marks in a Week 13 road interconference showdown against the Packers on Thanksgiving Night.

Smith brought in six of eight targets for 101 yards and two touchdowns in the Dolphins' 34-19 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

Smith exceeded his previous career high in receiving yards -- set in Week 9 of last season while with the Falcons -- by one yard while also recording multiple touchdown grabs for the first time since Week 5 of the 2020 season. Smith found the end zone from one and 57 yards out in the first and fourth quarters, respectively, and his receiving yards led the Dolphins on the afternoon. The veteran tight end has now exceeded 60 receiving yards on three occasions in the last six games as he continues to hit his stride in Mike McDaniel's offense, affording him plenty of momentum heading into a Week 12 home matchup against a vulnerable Patriots defense.

Smith brought in three of four targets for 45 yards in the Dolphins' 23-15 win over the Rams on Monday night.

Smith had one of the Dolphins' two catches of 30-plus yards on the night and tied Jaylen Waddle for the team lead in receptions. The veteran tight end also checked in second in both receiving yards and targets, and Smith now has between 45 and 96 receiving yards in four of his last five games. He's also now logged 16 targets from Tua Tagovailoa over the quarterback's first three games back from his IR stint due to a concussion, keeping Smith in the fantasy conversation at the fickle tight end position heading into a favorable Week 11 home matchup against the Raiders.

Smith secured five of six targets for 46 yards during Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Bills.

Smith played a season-high 68 percent of offensive snaps during Miami's divisional Week 9 loss, while also recording his fourth straight game with at least six targets. His recent involvement in the passing game has been encouraging, though that's come with Jaylen Waddle less involved than usual, averaging just 24.5 receiving yards in his last four appearances. Tua Tagovailoa has historically filtered his target volume primarily through Tyreek Hill and Waddle, and if that returns to the norm, it could come at Smith's expense. Still, Smith has earned streaming fantasy consideration heading into a Monday night road game against the Rams.

Smith secured four of six targets for 20 yards during Sunday's 28-27 loss to the Cardinals.

Smith has drawn seven, eight, and six targets in his last three appearances, so despite a low yardage total in the Week 8 loss, his involvement on offense remains encouraging. With Tua Tagovailoa back under center, Miami's offense will look to continue getting back on track with a key Week 9 divisional matchup against the Bills on deck Week 9.

Smith caught all seven of his targets for 86 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Colts.

The veteran tight end was the only Miami pass-catcher to have any kind of success, as Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle combined for a meager 2-19-0 line on four targets. Smith's 10-yard score came in the first quarter with Tyler Huntley (shoulder) under center, but if Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) is able to return in Week 8 against the Cardinals, it would likely result in a reduced role for the TE, and a much rosier outlook for the team's two star WRs.

Smith brought in five of eight targets for 62 yards in the Dolphins' 15-10 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

Smith finished as the runner-up in receptions and receiving yards for the Dolphins while also tying Jaylen Waddle for second in targets. The veteran tight end had been held without a catch in his first game playing with Tyler Huntley as his quarterback in Week 6, but Smith's resurgence Sunday featured a new season high in receiving yardage. Smith will likely get at least one more game with Huntley when Miami visits the Colts on Sunday, Oct. 20 following a Week 6 bye.

Smith failed to secure his only target during Miami's 31-12 loss to the Titans on Monday night.

Smith played a solid 43 percent of offensive snaps, but he was invisible in a game that featured Tyler Huntley throwing for less than 100 yards. The Dolphins' offense will need to get back on track Week 5 versus the Patriots in order for Smith to have any chance at producing, but the veteran tight end can safely be left off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats until he shows some signs of consistency.

Smith secured two of three targets for 18 yards during Miami's 24-3 loss to the Seahawks on Sunday.

Smith wasn't able to get much going with a combination of Skylar Thompson (ribs) and Tim Boyle under center. The Dolphins' offense was only able to pile up a total of 186 passing yards versus an aggressive Seattle defense, resulting in Smith playing just 38 percent of offensive snaps, his third straight game below the 50 percent mark. Smith will work to get more involved versus the Titans in Week 4.

Smith secured six of seven targets for 53 yards in the Dolphins' 31-10 loss to the Bills on Thursday night.

After only recording a single reception in the Week 1 win over the Jaguars, Smith was much more involved four days later while finishing with the second-highest reception and receiving yardage totals on the night for the Dolphins. Smith also shared the team lead in targets with De'Von Achane, and if Skylar Thompson ultimately fills in for Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) in a Week 3 road battle against the Seahawks on Sept. 22, the veteran tight end could have a similar level of involvement as a reliable safety valve.

Smith secured one of two targets for seven yards in the Dolphins' 20-17 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Smith actually had less targets than fellow TE Durham Smythe, who drew three looks from Tua Tagovailoa but wasn't able to log a single catch. Considering his YAC abilities and the two-year, $10 million contract Smith signed this offseason, he seemed a better candidate for pass-catching work than Smythe, even if both always projected to split positional reps. More productive days could still materialize for Smith, but Miami's aerial attack will always filter through top WRs Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who each cleared 100 yards versus Jacksonville. Smith will look to make more of an impact against Buffalo on Thursday Night Football in Week 2.

Smith brought in all four targets for 23 yards in the Dolphins' 13-6 preseason win over the Commanders on Saturday night.

The veteran offseason addition was on the receiving end of Tua Tagovailoa's second target of the night and finished second in reception for Miami overall. Smith should have a good chance of developing into the primary pass-catching option at tight end over Durham Smythe as the season unfolds, and Saturday's performance offered a glimpse of what he'll be able to bring as a complementary option to Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle (undisclosed) and Odell Beckham (undisclosed).

Dolphins TEs coach Jon Embree said Thursday that Smith and Durham Smythe have an every-other-day rotation at training camp, Omar Kelly of The Miami Herald reports.

The Dolphins signed Smith this offseason to add a receiving threat, after Smythe drew only 43 targets on 325 routes (13.2 percent) and 786 snaps last year. The two now figure to compete for playing time, and while Smith is of far more interest for fantasy purposes, it's possible the two tight ends end up in a rotation that makes it difficult for either to pile up volume. If nothing else, Smith is the obvious favorite to get playing time in passing situations.

Smith and the Dolphins agreed to terms Thursday on a two-year contract worth up to $10 million, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith provides Miami with a pass-catching complement to blocking specialist Durham Smythe at the tight end position, giving this offense another layer in the receiving game alongside wideouts Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Last season with Atlanta, Smith logged a career-best 50-582-3 receiving line on 70 targets, while working alongside Kyle Pitts. Heading into his age-29 season, Smith could be an under the radar fantasy stash due to his speed and potential fit in coach Mike McDaniel's offensive scheme, especially if he's able to establish himself as the Dolphins' clear starting tight end.

Smith visited the Dolphins on Tuesday and is negotiating a contract with the team, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

The Falcons released Smith last week, allowing him to sign with a new team before March 11 when players on expiring contracts can start negotiations. It also means he won't count in the 2025 draft pick compensation process, though the 28-year-old tight end doesn't figure to sign a big enough contract to have a major impact there anyway. Smith would, however, be a major threat to take the starting job away from Durham Smythe, who played 785 snaps last season but was targeted only 43 times (35 catches for 366 yards and no TDs). The addition of a faster TE like Smith might encourage coach Mike McDaniels and QB Tua Tagovialoa to send more targets to the position, though there's not a ton of room for volume when WRs Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle both are healthy.

The Falcons will release Smith, Terrin Waack of the team's official site reports.

Per the report, the move, which had been expected, will save the Falcons $6.5 million towards their salary cap. In his lone campaign with Atlanta, the 28-year-old hauled in 50 of his 70 targets for a career-high 582 yards and three TDs in 17 games, while logging action on 58 percent of the team's offensive snaps in 2023. In the wake of Smith's looming departure, Kyle Pitts remains atop the Falcons' tight end depth chart, with John FitzPatrick and Tucker Fisk also under contract for the 2024 season.

Smith is expected to be released by Atlanta, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith performed adequately for the Falcons in his debut season with the team, as in 2023 he secured 50 of 70 targets for 582 yards and three touchdowns across 17 regular-season appearances. Nonetheless, entering his age-29 season Smith carried a non-guaranteed salary of $6.5 million, with just $2.5 million in dead money, making his release a relatively easy decision. Though Smith was the Falcons' fourth-leading receiver in 2023, that came in part due to former head coach Arthur Smith's tight-end heavy deployment, something that seems likely to change under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. Kyle Pitts now looks primed to enter the 2024 campaign as the clear top option leading Atlanta's TE depth chart.

Smith may be released this offseason, according to Josh Kendall of The Athletic.

The Falcons traded for Smith last offseason and then put him in a role that allowed for career highs in targets (70), catches (50) and receiving yards (582), with the TE producing more yards than he had in two seasons combined (2021-22) for New England. His future nonetheless appears uncertain, as Smith will turn 29 in August and has a non-guaranteed $6.5 million base salary for the final year of his contract. The Falcons still have TE Kyle Pitts under contract and just hired an offensive coordinator (Zac Robinson) whose only prior NFL coaching experience was a five-year stint with a Rams team that regularly led the league in use of three-wide formations. The Falcons likely would try to trade Smith before releasing him, and other options would include a contract extension that lowers his 2024 cap hit.

Smith finished 2023 with 50 receptions on 70 targets for 582 yards and three touchdowns across 17 appearances.

After a career-high eight touchdowns with the Titans in 2020, Smith landed a four-year deal from the Patriots. However, he struggled to replicate his production during two seasons in New England and was traded to Atlanta last offseason. Kyle Pitts was healthy for the entire campaign, but Smith was still able to generate fantasy-relevant production on numerous occasions in 2023. Both tight ends will be in the final year of their respective deals in 2024, and while Pitts has the higher upside, it's unclear how the Falcons' new regime will opt to utilize the duo.

Smith caught four of six targets for 32 yards during Sunday's 29-10 win over the Colts.

Smith saw at least six targets for the seventh time this season. However, it was just the third time he's reached that feat over Atlanta's last 10 games. Smith should be on radars in PPR standard leagues, but he's likely a touchdown-dependent option for the remainder of the season.

Smith caught both of his targets for 61 yards during Sunday's 9-7 loss to Carolina.

Smith was fifth on the team in targets but led Atlanta in receiving thanks to a 56-yard gain in the second quarter, setting up the only touchdown of the game. The veteran tight end played just 17 snaps compared to Kyle Pitts' 34, so despite the big play, Smith's fantasy value remains limited. Since posting a 5-100-1 line against the Vikings in Week 9, Smith has caught just nine of 15 targets for 99 yards over his last five appearances and hasn't scored during that stretch.

Smith caught four of seven targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 29-25 loss to the Buccaneers.

Smith's seven targets Sunday were his most since Week 5, but the tight end was unable to turn those opportunities into much production. The veteran played 69 percent of the Falcons' offensive snaps, while fellow tight end Kyle Pitts saw an 85 percent snap share. Smith's inconsistent production and often limited opportunities make him an untrustworthy option for fantasy in most formats. The 28-year-old should continue to face an uphill battle for meaningful touches when the Falcons visit the Panthers in Week 15.

Smith caught two of three targets for 10 yards during Sunday's 13-8 win over the Jets.

Smith caught multiple receptions for the first time since Week 9, when he posted a 5-100-1 line in a loss to the Vikings. From Weeks 2 through 9, the veteran tight end caught 34 passes for 422 yards and two touchdowns, but since then, he's caught just three of six targets for 11 yards. Smith isn't trending in the right direction and should only be rostered in deeper leagues.

Smith didn't register a target during Sunday's 24-15 win over the Saints.

From Weeks 2 through 9, Smith caught 34 of 42 targets for 422 yards and two touchdowns, including a 5-100-1 line during a Week 9 loss to Minnesota. However, in his last two appearances, the veteran tight end has caught just one of three targets for one yard. He played a season-low 22 offensive snaps versus New Orleans, but there was no injury reported, suggesting he's simply falling down the pecking order. Given his early-season success, fantasy managers shouldn't give up on Smith yet, but he's not trending in the right direction.

Smith caught one of two targets for one yard during Sunday's 25-23 loss to Arizona.

Smith has been one of the biggest fantasy surprises this year, outproducing fellow tight end Kyle Pitts nearly every week. However, the veteran fell flat versus Arizona after posting a season-high 100 receiving yards versus Minnesota last week. Smith wasn't the only Falcons' pass catcher who struggled Sunday, though. Taylor Heinicke (hamstring) and Desmond Ridder combined to throw for less than 100 yards, as Atlanta leaned heavily on the run game. Smith certainly has value in PPR leagues, but it's difficult to trust any Falcons' skill players in fantasy this year.

Smith recorded five receptions on six targets for 100 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Vikings. He rushed the ball once for zero yards.

Smith appeared to be getting phased out of the Atlanta offense, as he entered Sunday's contest with only four targets combined across his previous two games. However, he turned in an impressive performance, highlighted by a 60-yard touchdown that came entirely on yards after the catch halfway through the third quarter. Smith's performance will likely remain uneven, but he has now topped 60 yards with at least five receptions in three of his last six contests.

Smith caught his only target for 13 yards and failed to complete his lone pass attempt during Sunday's 28-23 loss to the Titans.

Smith (48 offensive snaps) was on the field more than any of the Falcons' other tight ends, including Kyle Pitts (41). However, the veteran saw just one target, his fewest since the season opener. Head coach Arthur Smith did dial up a trick play for Smith in the red zone Sunday, but it wasn't successful. From Weeks 2-6, Smith caught 25 passes (32 targets) for 282 yards and a touchdown, but since then, he's secured just four passes for 40 yards. Given Smith is still garnering a lot of playing time, he should be on fantasy radars, but at this point, it's difficult to trust any Falcons' skill players on a weekly basis.

Smith reeled in all three of his targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 16-13 win over the Buccaneers.

Smith's three targets, three catches and 27 yards were all low marks for the tight end since Week 2 after not being targeted in the season opener. Despite a disappointing outing, the veteran has been a consistent option in the Falcons' passing game. Smith played 35 of the Falcons' 65 offensive snaps Sunday, while fellow tight end Kyle Pitts finished the contest with 34 snaps. The 28-year-old will look to stay involved and remain one of the top options in the passing attack when the Falcons visit the Titans in Week 8.

Smith caught four of five targets for 36 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 24-16 loss to the Commanders.

After not garnering a target in the season opener, Smith has been one of the most consistent options in the Falcons' passing attack. Over the last five games, he's caught 25 of 32 targets for 282 yards and secured his first touchdown of the season in Week 6. If the veteran can keep this pace up, he's in store for a career year from a yardage standpoint and will remain a strong PPR option. However, he'll have to keep finding the end zone if he's going to remain on the cusp of fantasy relevancy in non-PPR leagues.

Smith (ankle) practiced fully Thursday, Amna Subhan of the Falcons' official site reports.

One day removed from having practice limitations due to an ankle injury, Smith was able to return to all activity Thursday, setting him up to be available to Atlanta's offense Sunday against the Commanders. He'll thus continue to be a regular in a unit that also includes TE Kyle Pitts, WR Drake London and RBs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier.

Smith was limited by an ankle injury at Wednesday's practice, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Smith has been the most productive tight end for the Falcons this season, putting together a 21-246-0 line on 27 targets versus Kyle Pitts' 18-208-0 on 32 targets through five games. Having said that, Pitts just had his best performance of the season during Sunday's win against the Texans, when he hauled in seven of 11 passes for 87 yards. Now that Smith is dealing with a health concern, the breakdown of reps between the two will be one to monitor, especially if Smith is hindered or even needs to miss some time moving forward.

Smith caught six of seven targets for 67 yards during Sunday's 21-19 win over the Texans. He also lost a fumble.

Smith caught six passes for a second straight game and has totaled 21 receptions for 246 yards over the past four weeks. Head coach Arthur Smith mentioned during Week 5 prep that Kyle Pitts may not be back to 100 percent following a season-ending knee injury last year, which has allowed the veteran Smith to claim a larger role than expected to begin 2023. Pitts submitted his best game of the season versus Houston, finishing with team highs in targets (11), receptions (seven) and receiving yards (87), but Smith was still heavily involved in the passing attack and played eight more offensive snaps than Pitts. They will likely continue to limit each other's fantasy ceilings, but Sunday's outing showed they can both be successful in Atlanta's tight-end heavy offensive scheme.

Smith caught all six of his targets for 95 yards in Sunday's 23-7 loss to the Jaguars.

The veteran tight end led the Falcons in catches and receiving yards on the day, while Kyle Pitts was limited to a 2-21-0 line on four targets. The 95 yards were also a new career high for Smith, and his familiarity with head coach Arthur Smith's scheme from their days together in Tennessee appears to be playing dividends. Smith the TE will look to get into the end zone for the first time this season in a Week 5 clash with the Texans.

Smith caught five of eight targets for 37 yards during Sunday's 20-6 loss to the Lions.

After not catching a pass in the season opener, Smith has recorded nine receptions (14 targets) for 84 yards over the last two games. The veteran finished second on the team in targets during Sunday's loss, and his eight chances actually tie a career-high mark, which he's accomplished two other times. Given his recent usage, fantasy managers should keep an eye on Smith moving forward, but the 28-year-old tight end likely still has a limited ceiling in Atlanta's run-heavy offense.

Smith caught four of six targets for 47 yards during Sunday's 25-24 win over the Packers.

After getting blanked in the season opener, Smith was more involved in the passing attack versus Green Bay. The tight end tied Bijan Robinson for the second-most receptions on the team and finished fourth in yards. Smith played just two fewer snaps than Kyle Pitts (57), but the former outproduced the latter. The veteran will presumably get plenty of snaps on a weekly basis, as coach Arthur Smith loves using multiple tight ends, but it's difficult to trust any of Atlanta's pass catchers on a weekly basis.

Smith played 26 offensive snaps but didn't record a target during Sunday's 24-10 win over the Panthers.

Smith got some cardio Sunday, as his only noteworthy play across 26 snaps was a false start. Coach Arthur Smith loves to utilize tight ends, meaning Jonnu should continue to be involved on a weekly basis, but at best, the 28-year-old is the fifth or sixth pass-catching option in an offense that leans heavily on the run.

Smith (undisclosed) participated in team drills during Wednesday's practice, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports.

Smith, who had missed time with an unspecified issue, returned to the field Tuesday and his increased participation Wednesday has the tight end on track to be able to continue to carve out a complementary role behind top option Kyle Pitts. As long as Pitts is available, Smith may not see steady targets in Atlanta's offense, but the 2017 third-rounder could be a viable streaming option in the event that Pitts misses any time this coming season.

Smith has been held out of practice this week with a minor injury but should return soon, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.

Falcons coach Arthur Smith told reporters Wednesday that "at worst" the tight end would return for joint practices with Miami ahead of the two teams' Aug. 11 preseason opener. It remains to be seen how the Falcons deploy (Jonnu) Smith in an offense that also has TE Kyle Pitts, but they presumably have a significant role in mind after acquiring the soon-to-be 28-year-old in a trade with New England this offseason. Granted, a significant real-life role is unlikely to equate to fantasy value, unless maybe Pitts misses a chunk of the season again.

The Patriots are slated to trade Smith to the Falcons in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The move frees up cap space for the Patriots, while leaving Hunter Henry as the team's clear-cut top tight end ahead of free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, Smith is in line to provide the Falcons with an experienced pass-catching option to work behind starting TE Kyle Pitts. This past season, -- his second with New England -- Smith recorded 27 catches on 38 targets for 245 yards in 14 games.

Smith finished the 2022 season with 27 catches on 38 targets for 245 yards in 14 games.

Since signing a four-year, $50,000,000 deal with the Patriots that runs through the 2024 season, Smith's fantasy impact has been modest, while working in a tight end time-share that has tilted in favor of Hunter Henry, whose deal with the team goes through 2023. In that context, Smith's weekly lineup utility next season figures to be limited to deeper leagues, though in the event that Henry is sidelined at any point, Smith -- who missed time down the stretch in 2022 due to a concussion -- could yield dividends as a streaming option.

Smith (concussion) was downgraded and will not play Sunday against the Bills.

That's now two consecutive games Smith will miss after suffering a concussion Week 16 against the Bengals. Expect Hunter Henry to see more work with the veteran tight end unavailable. The 28-year-old tallied five receptions and 52 yards in last week's win over the Dolphins with Smith sidelined.

Smith (concussion) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bills after practicing in a limited fashion Thursday and Friday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Smith, who didn't play in the team's Week 17 win over the Dolphins, thus has a chance to suit up this weekend, though if he does he'd profile as a hit-or-miss fantasy option while working in tandem with fellow tight end Hunter Henry. In 14 games to date, Smith has caught 27 of his 38 targets for 245 yards and has yet to record a TD this season.

Smith (concussion) returned to a limited practice Thursday.

Smith -- who was inactive in Week 17 -- didn't practice Wednesday, but his return to Thursday's session suggests that the tight end could be available Sunday against the Bills. Friday's final injury report will provide added context with regard to Smith's availability for the contest.

Smith (concussion) was present for practice Thursday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Smith didn't practice Wednesday, but his return to the field Thursday suggests that the tight end has a chance to return to action in Sunday's scheduled game against the Bills. The Patriots' upcoming injury report will clarify Smith's official participation level.

Smith (concussion) didn't participate in practice Wednesday.

Smith didn't play in Week 17 against the Dolphins, and his continued absence from practice clouds his status for this Sunday's scheduled game against the Bills. If Smith remains sidelined, Hunter Henry would once again be in line to log added snaps and targets in Week 18.

Smith (concussion) won't play Sunday against the Dolphins, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Fellow tight end Hunter Henry (knee) is listed as questionable, but if Henry's able to suit up, Smith's absence may afford him more playing time against a Dolphins defense that's allowed 10 touchdowns to tight ends, which is tied for the most in the league. Smith's last opportunity to return before the end of the regular season will come in Week 18 against the Bills.

Smith (concussion) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Smith has one more chance to practice ahead of Sunday's game against the Dolphins, but if he's out this weekend, then Hunter Henry would be in line for added tight end snaps for the Patriots, assuming he plays through the knee issue that limited him during Wednesday's practice session.

Smith (concussion) didn't practice Wednesday.

With Smith confirmed to be dealing with a concussion, the tight end will need to clear the NFL's protocol in order to play Sunday against the Dolphins. If Smith is unavailable this weekend, then Hunter Henry would be in line for added Week 17 snaps, assuming he's able to play through the knee issue that limited him Wednesday.

Smith (head) wasn't spotted at Wednesday's practice, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, Hunter Henry (knee) was present for Wednesday's session. In any case, the status of both tight ends will be monitoring ahead of Sunday's game against the Dolphins. If either Smith or Henry are out this weekend, Matt Sokol would be a candidate to be elevated from the Patriots' practice squad.

Smith exited Saturday's game against the Bengals with a head injury and is questionable to return, Jim McBride of The Boston Globe reports.

After he was initially evaluated in the blue medical tent on the New England sideline, Smith headed to the locker room to presumably undergo further evaluation for a possible concussion. He's the second Patriots tight end to leave Saturday's contest early, as Hunter Henry was already ruled out for the rest of the game with a knee injury. The 6-foot-5, 217-pound Scotty Washington, who is listed as a receiver but has previous experience at tight end, is likely to fill in as the Patriots' tight end the rest of the way if Smith is unable to return.

Smith caught two of his three targets for 24 yards in Sunday's 30-24 loss to the Raiders.

Smith was out-snapped in the contest by Hunter Henry (52-38), per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, with both players catching two passes versus Las Vegas. As the stretch run approaches, Smith's fantasy upside remains capped, given the Patriots' tight end time share.

Smith logged 28 of a possible 59 snaps on offense in Monday's 27-13 win over the Cardinals, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith, who didn't catch a pass in the contest (on two targets), was out-snapped Monday by fellow tight end Hunter Henry (39-28), who caught all three of his targets for 70 yards. In a continuing time-share, Smith remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option as this Sunday's game against the Raiders approaches.

Smith logged 17 of a possible 54 snaps on offense in Thursday's 24-10 loss to the Bills en route to catching both of his targets for six yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith, who was out-snapped by fellow tight end Hunter Henry (47 to 17) Thursday, is averaging two catches for 18.2 yards through 11 games thus far. Given that he hasn't scored a TD in that span while working in a time-share with Henry, Smith heads into the Patriots' stretch run with modest fantasy upside.

Smith went without a target during Thursday's 33-26 loss to the Vikings.

Smith played only 16 offensive snaps, matching his lowest total of the season. He was overshadowed by position mate Hunter Henry (three catches for 63 yards and a touchdown), and Smith has now failed to record a reception on three occasions this season. Prior to Thursday's matchup, Smith's involvement on offense appeared to be trending up, as he had tallied at least three catches in each of his last three games.

Smith caught four passes on as many targets for 40 yards and carried once for five yards in Sunday's 10-3 win over the Jets.

Smith was out-snapped by fellow tight end Hunter Henry (53 to 34) on Sunday, but he was more involved in the team's passing game, with Henry logging just one target. With 10 catches on 11 targets for 71 yards over his last three games, Smith approaches Thursday night's game against the Vikings with modest fantasy upside.

Smith caught three of his four targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 26-3 win over the Colts.

Smith, who was on the field for 34 of a possible 63 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, has logged three catches and four targets in each of his last two outings, but while working in a time-share with fellow TE Hunter Henry, the 27-year-old remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option as the Patriots' Nov. 20 contest against the Jets approaches.

Smith caught three of his four targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Jets.

Mike Reiss of ESPN.com relays that Smith was on the field for 50 of a possible 78 snaps on offense in the contest -- as was fellow TE Hunter Henry -- but with a total of 13 catches on 20 targets for 133 yards in seven games to date, Smith is a low-percentage fantasy lineup option as long as he continues to work in a time share.

Smith recorded 17 of a possible 52 snaps on offense in Monday's 33-14 loss to the Bears en route to catching one of his three targets for four yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

The tight end was out-snapped by Hunter Henry (44 snaps, one catch on two targets) in the contest and with a 10/123/0 stat line on 16 targets through six outings thus far, Smith is a low-percentage fantasy lineup option while working in a time-share.

Smith (ankle) returned to a full practice Friday.

With that, Smith is line to suit up Monday night against the Bears, though the tight end's weekly fantasy upside continues to be impacted by working in a timeshare with Hunter Henry. In five games to date, Smith has logged a total of nine catches on 13 targets for 119 yards.

Smith (ankle) was limited at practice Thursday.

Following a one-game absence, Smith logged 30 of a possible 70 snaps on offense in this past Sunday's win over the Browns, while catching both of his targets for 61 yards. With no reported setbacks in that contest, we'd expect Smith to be available Monday night against the Bears, but the tight end's fantasy upside is hampered by working in a time-share with Hunter Henry.

Smith was on the field for 30 of a possible 70 snaps on offense in Sunday's 38-15 win over the Browns en route to catching both of his targets for 61 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile fellow tight end Hunter Henry logged 68 snaps, while catching four of his seven targets for 61 yards and a TD. Smith's Week 6 fantasy line was bolstered by a 53-yard catch, but looking ahead to next Monday's game against the Bears, he's a hit-or-miss lineup option, given that he continues to work in a time-share with Henry.

Smith (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Browns.

Smith, who was inactive for last weekend's win over the Lions, will give it a go Sunday and is thus slated to step back into a time share with fellow TE Hunter Henry. In that ongoing arrangement, Smith -- who has caught seven of his 11 targets for 58 yards in four games to date -- is a hit-or-miss fantasy option

Smith is listed as questionable for Sunday's game game Browns, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Smith, who was inactive for this past Sunday's win over the Lions, practiced in a limited fashion all week, so he's trending in the right direction ahead of Week 6 action. If he's able to suit up versus Cleveland, he'd step back into a tight end time share with Hunter Henry, a context that would make both players hit-or-miss fantasy lineup options.

Smith (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith was inactive for this past Sunday's win over the Lions, but he's now logged three straight limited practices, which suggests that he could potentially return to action this weekend against the Browns. If he remains sidelined, however, Hunter Henry would once again be in line for added TE looks for the Patriots in Week 6.

Smith (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Lions.

With Smith out versus Detroit, fellow tight end Hunter Henry is in line for added work Sunday, with Matt Sokol up from the practice squad to provide Week 5 depth at the position. Jones, who is reportedly dealing with a low-ankle sprain, will thus target a possible return to the mix next Sunday against the Browns.

Smith (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions after being limited at practice Thursday and Friday.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network previously described Smith, who is dealing with a low-ankle sprain as week-to-week, and the tight end's 'doubtful' listing suggests that he'll be unavailable this weekend. If that's the case, Hunter Henry would be in line for added work in Week 5, likely on the receiving end of Bailey Zappe throws, with top QB Mac Jones (ankle) doubtful versus Detroit.

Smith (ankle) was limited at practice Thursday.

After missing Wednesday's practice, Smith upgraded to limited participation Thursday, signalling that he has a chance to suit up Sunday against the Lions. If he does, Smith would continue to work in a tight end time share with Hunter Henry in Week 5.

Smith (ankle) was present for Thursday's practice after sitting out Wednesday's session, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Thursday's injury report will clarify the tight end's participation level, but his return to the field suggests that he has a chance to suit up this weekend against the Lions. Four games into the 2022 season, Jones has caught seven of his 11 targets for 58 yards while working in a time share with Hunter Henry .

Smith was diagnosed Wednesday with a low-ankle sprain and is considered week-to-week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

A high-ankle sprain would have necessitated a longer recovery timeline, but Smith's low-ankle injury looks as though it'll still be enough to keep him on the sideline for one game. He suffered the injury in Sunday's overtime loss to the Packers, playing just 17 snaps before departing. Though Smith has turned in only seven receptions for 58 yards on 11 targets through four games, his absence should at least clear the way for Hunter Henry to absorb a larger share of the snaps and targets available at tight end. New England doesn't currently have another healthy tight end on the roster beyond Henry, so expect the team to add a body to the position group in advance of this weekend's game against Detroit.

Smith (ankle) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Packers, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Smith wasn't targeted to begin Sunday's matchup, and he'll be unavailable down the stretch due to his ankle issue. It's not yet clear whether he'll be able to return next week against the Lions, but Hunter Henry should see an increased role for New England in Smith's absence.

Smith (ankle) is questionable to return Sunday against the Packers.

Smith's exit leaves Hunter Henry as the only healthy tight end for the Patriots. If the former is unable to return, he'll turn his efforts toward being available for Week 5 against the Lions.

Smith was on the field for 32 of a possible 66 snaps on offense in Sunday's 37-26 loss to the Ravens, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Though out-snapped by Hunter Henry (46), Smith was the more productive of the two tight ends in Week 3, catching all four of his targets for 25 yards, while Henry hauled in his only target for eight yards. Looking ahead, Smith continues to profile as a hit-or-miss fantasy option, considering he's in a time-share and that Patriots' starting QB Mac Jones appears poised to miss time with an ankle injury.

Smith was on the field for 39 of a possible 68 snaps on offense in Sunday's 17-14 win over the Steelers, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

After hauling in three of his four targets for 33 yards in Week 1, Smith was held without a catch (on three targets) Sunday. Fellow tight end Hunter Henry (34 snaps, one target) also went without a catch in the contest. Though both players will no doubt have weeks where they are more involved in the offense, a continuing time-share with Henry makes Smith a hit-or-miss fantasy option ahead of the team's Week 3 contest against the Ravens.

Smith was on the field for 39 of a possible 57 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-7 loss to the Dolphins, en route catching three of his four targets for 33 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Given that the Patriots are not currently rostering a fullback, the team figures to feature plenty of two-tight end sets this coming season, as evidenced by the fact that Hunter Henry (two catches for 20 yards) logged 44 snaps in Week 1. With that in mind, both Smith and Henry should see steady playing time in the weeks ahead, but with a TE time-share in play, Smith's going to be a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

The Patriots and Smith agreed Friday to convert $7.97 million of his base salary into a signing bonus, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

New England frees up $5.31 million in salary cap for 2022 with the move. Smith is heading into his second season with the Patriots, and he's primed again to form a tight end duo with Hunter Henry. Last year Henry paced New England's tight end room with 75 targets as opposed to Smith's 45, but the team could employ more two-TE sets in 2022 now that no fullback is on the roster.

Smith caught his only target for five yards in the Patriots' 23-6 preseason loss to the Raiders on Friday night.

Smith and fellow tight end Hunter Henry both logged 16 snaps in the team's preseason finale, with New England's depth options seeing extended action. However, once the regular season starts, Henry and Smith are in line to form a 1-2 TE combo for the team. In that context, Smith figures to log a steady share of snaps in 2022, but as long as both players are available, Smith's target volume could be somewhat sporadic.

Smith logged 16 snaps on offense in Friday's 20-10 preseason win over the Panthers, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com.

Smith, who was listed in the starting lineup along with fellow tight end Devin Asiasi, didn't record a target in the contest during his abbreviated time on the field, but as Week 1 approaches, he's expected to see his share of looks from QB Mac Jones, while being part of a 1-2 TE combo that will also feature Hunter Henry, who sat out Friday's contest with an undisclosed injury. In his first campaign with the Patriots after signing a four-year, $50 million deal last March, Smith finished with 28 catches (on 45 targets) for 294 yards and a touchdown, but Evan Lazard of the Patriots' official site, among others, has noted that the 6-foot-3, 248-pounder has turned in a solid training camp, which could foreshadow something of a bounce-back effort for Smith this coming season.

Smith is in line to be a full participant in the Patriots' voluntary organized team activities in advance of the 2022 season, NESN's Zack Cox reports.

That wasn't the case last year, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, as Smith awaited the birth of his daughter, while also factoring in COVID considerations. In his first season with the Patriots after signing a four-year, $50 million deal last March, Smith finished with 28 catches (on 45 targets) for 294 yards and a touchdown to go along with nine carries for 40 yards over 16 games, while operating in a time-share that tilted in Hunter Henry's favor. Cox suggests that with the team seemingly moving away from employing a traditional fullback in 2022, Smith could see added opportunities with a potential uptick in two-tight end sets, as well as the possibility that he could take on a share of fullback/H-back duties, with Jakob Johnson no longer in the mix. In that context, Smith could gain added fantasy relevance, but as long as he and Henry share snaps, consistent volume could remain an issue for the 2017 third-rounder.

Smith finished the 2021 regular season with 28 catches (on 45 targets) for 294 yards and a TD to go along with nine carries for 40 yards in 16 games.

Smith, who agreed to a four-year, $50 million deal with the Patriots this past March, worked in tandem with fellow free-agent addition Hunter Henry, who inked a three-year, $37.5 million pact with the team. The resulting time share tilted in Henry's favor (he logged a 50/603/9 stat line), while Smith's output as a receiver in his first campaign with New England was modest. While an uptick in production is a plausible outcome for Smith in 2022, as long as he and Henry share snaps, the 2017 third-rounder may continue to see inconsistent volume.

Smith was on the field for 25 of a possible 62 snaps on offense in Sunday's 33-24 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith wasn't targeted in the contest and logged one carry for five yards Sunday. He finishes up the 2021 regular season with 28 catches (on 45 targets) for 294 yards and a TD to go long with nine carries for 40 yards in 16 games. While working in a tight end timeshare that has seen Hunter Henry more involved as a pass-catcher, Smith remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option heading into Saturday's playoff opener against the Bills.

Smith was on the field for 42 of a possible 72 snaps on offense in Sunday's 50-10 win over the Jaguars, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Despite seeing more snaps (42) in Week 17 than fellow tight end Hunter Henry (39 snaps, three catches on five targets for 37 yards), Smith was limited to one catch on his only target for 20 yards and one carry for five yards. As long as he operates in a game-flow dependent timeshare, Smith will remain a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Smith logged 21 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 33-21 loss to the Bills, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Smith was not targeted in the contest. Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry saw action on 55 snaps and caught one of his six targets for nine yards. While working in a game-flow dependent time-share, Smith remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option down the stretch.

Smith caught just one of his three targets for three yards in Saturday's 27-17 loss to Indianapolis.

Per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, Smith logged 17 of a possible 68 snaps in the contest, while fellow tight end Hunter Henry was on the field for 55 snaps, en route to catching six of his eight targets for 77 yards and two TDs. Back-to-back one-catch efforts doesn't inspire much confidence in Smith as a Week 16 fantasy option, but if the Patriots' wideout depth is compromised this weekend, which is possible, the team may need to focus more attention on its tight end duo versus Buffalo on Sunday.

Smith secured his only target for 12 yards during Monday's 14-10 win over Buffalo.

Smith also had one carry for minus one yards. Harsh weather and a run-first game plan that asked Mac Jones to attempt just three passes limited all New England's pass catches, but after a Week 14 bye, the team stands to deploy a more traditional offense on the road against Indianapolis.

Smith, who was on the field for 34 of a possible 60 snaps in Sunday's 36-13 win over the Titans, caught three of his four targets for 49 yards and ran once for nine yards in the contest, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry saw action on 41 snaps and caught two of his five targets for 16 yards. In each of his three previous games, Smith recorded two targets, but he was a little more involved in Sunday's game plan, while facing his former team. He continues to profile as a marginal fantasy option in Week 13 fantasy lineups, while working in a time-share with Henry.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

The same applies to fellow tight end Hunter Henry (neck). While operating in a timeshare with Henry, Smith has caught 22 of his 36 targets for 210 yards and a TD through 10 games. As long as Henry (33-378-7 in 11 games) is available, Smith will remain a hit-or-miss fantasy option on a weekly basis.

Smith (shoulder) remains questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans, but the Patriots are expected to make him active for the contest, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith is one four New England skill-position players listed as questionable for Week 12, but he, fellow tight end Hunter Henry (neck) and running backs Damien Harris (neck) and Rhamondre Stevenson (knee) are all likely to be available. When both tight ends have played this season, Smith has typically played second fiddle to Henry both in terms of snaps and involvement in the passing attack. Through 10 outings, Smith has tallied 22 receptions for 210 yards and one touchdown across 36 targets.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans after practicing in a limited fashion this week.

As is fellow tight end Hunter Henry (neck), with the Patriots having listed a total of 10 players as questionable for the contest. Fortunately, the duo's Week 12 status will be solidified prior to the first wave of games Sunday, with New England and Tennessee kicking off at 1:00 ET. While working in a time-share with Henry, Smith has logged a 22/210/1 stat line through 10 outings. In that context, he profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option when both are uniform.

Smith (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Smith continues to manage a shoulder issue, but we expect him to suit up Sunday against the Titans and in the process he's slated to continue to work in a tight end time-share with Hunter Henry (neck), who was also listed as limited Wednesday. Per ESPN's Mike Reiss, Smith has logged a 47.8 percent share of the Patriots' offensive snaps thus far, which has resulted in the free-agent acquisition tallying marginal fantasy numbers -- 22 catches (on 36 targets) for 210 yards and a TD -- through 10 games.

Smith was on the field for 33 of a possible 64 snaps in Thursday's 25-0 win over the Falcons, en route to catching one of his two targets for 17 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry parlayed his 32 snaps into two catches on three targets for 25 yards. As long as he continues to split work with Henry, Smith -- who has logged two targets in each of his last three games -- remains a risky fantasy option.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as active for Thursday night's game against the Falcons.

The tight end is out there if you need him Thursday after a one-game absence, but his fantasy ceiling is capped while working in a time-share with Hunter Henry. It's an arrangement that has resulted in Smith averaging 2.3 catches for 21.4 yards on 3.8 targets per game, while scoring one TD through nine contests.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game in Atlanta and is traveling with the team, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith has battled the shoulder injury for almost a month now, finally missing a game Sunday when the Patriots beat the Browns by 38 points. Hunter Henry caught two TD passes in the contest and played 94 percent of offensive snaps before the fourth quarter, but he'll likely lose some of his workload if Smith makes it back Thursday night. Smith has scored just one TD of his own this year, averaging 2.3 catches for 21.4 yards on 3.8 targets per game.

Smith (shoulder) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

Smith's practice reps have been capped since picking up a shoulder injury Week 9 at Carolina. Despite getting on the field in every session for Week 10 prep, he was inactive this past Sunday against the Browns. It's unclear if he's facing a similar fate for Thursday's game In Atlanta, but if Smith is unable to play Hunter Henry will be the unquestioned No. 1 tight end for the Patriots.

Smith (shoulder) was listed as a limited on Monday's practice estimate.

Though Smith was able to practice in a limited fashion last week, he was inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns. With that in mind, we'd expect him to approach this Thursday night's game against the Falcons listed as questionable, and if he remains out in Week 11, Hunter Henry would be in line to continue to head the Patriots' tight end corps, with Devin Asiasi and Matt LaCosse in reserve.

Smith (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns.

With Smith inactive Sunday, look for Hunter Henry to see added snaps and looks versus the Browns, while Devin Asiasi and Matt LaCosse are on hand to handle the team's complementary tight end duties in Week 10.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Browns after practicing in a limited fashion this past week.

Smith has been managing a shoulder issue of late, but we'd still expect him to be available for Sunday's 1:00 ET kickoff. That said, the tight end remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option, while continuing to work in a timeshare with Hunter Henry.

Smith (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Smith was forced out of this past Sunday's game against the Panthers after logging 28 snaps and one catch on two targets for four yards. The fact that he practiced Wednesday, however -- albeit in limited fashion -- bodes well for his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Browns and continuing to work in a time-share will fellow TE Hunter Henry.

Smith exited Sunday's game against the Panthers with a shoulder injury.

Smith has been managing a shoulder injury of late, so his departure from Sunday's contest may be due to an aggravation of the issue. Prior to his exit, Smith caught one of his two targets for four yards. In his absence, added tight end looks are available for Hunter Henry.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

The tight end has been managing a shoulder issue of late, but he'll continue to work though it Sunday. In last week's win over the Chargers, Smith logged 49 of a possible Patriots' 77 snaps on offense, while catching both of his targets for 13 yards. Given that he continues to work in a timeshare with Hunter Henry (50 snaps in Week 8), Smith remains a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers after practicing in a limited fashion this past week.

The tight end was also limited in practice last week before suiting up for the Patriots' Week 8 win over the Chargers, en route playing 49 of the Patriots' 77 snaps on offense and catching both of his targets for 13 yards. We'd expect him to suit up this weekend as well, though in the context of working in a timeshare with Hunter Henry, Smith continues to profile as a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Smith (shoulder) logged a limited practice session Wednesday.

Smith was limited at practice last week as well before suiting up for this past Sunday's win over the Chargers, en route to logging 49 of a possible 77 snaps on offense and catching both of his targets for 13 yards. With no reported setbacks in that contest, we'd expect him to continue to work in a timeshare with Hunter Henry this weekend against the Panthers, but Smith will need to practice fully be the end of the week in order to avoid a Week 9 injury designation.

Smith was on the field for 49 of a possible 77 snaps on offense in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Chargers, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Smith caught both of his targets for 13 yards, while fellow tight end Hunter Henry (50 snaps) recorded one catch for 33 yards on three targets. In the context of working in a time-share, Smith continues to profile as a hit-or-miss fantasy option as this coming Sunday's game against the Panthers approaches.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Smith, who logged limited practices this past week, will be out there if you need him Sunday, but his weekly fantasy ceiling has thus far has been capped while operating in a timeshare with Hunter Henry. Through seven contests, Smith has caught 18 of his 30 targets for 176 yards and a TD, while Henry has recorded a 24/264/4 stat line in that span.

Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers after logging limited practices this past week.

Smith, who was forced out of this past Sunday's win over the Jets after suffering a shoulder injury, is one of 14 players listed as questionable by New England this week. Per Zack Cox of NESN.com, though Smith's scheduled Friday news conference was canceled, he did travel with the team to Los Angeles in advance of Week 8 action. Official confirmation of Smith's game status will thus arrive when the Patriots' inactives are posted ahead of Sunday's 4:05 ET kickoff, but if he's limited or out this weekend, Hunter Henry would be in line for added looks.

Smith (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

The tight end was one of 15 players the Patriots listed as limited Wednesday, but his presence at practice is nonetheless encouraging, given that Smith exited this past Sunday's game against the Jets after suffering a shoulder injury. In order to avoid a Week 8 injury designation, however, Smith will presumably need to practice fully by Friday.

Smith (shoulder) was spotted at Wednesday's practice, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Smith was forced out of this past Sunday's win over the Jets after suffering a shoulder injury, but his presence at practice Wednesday bodes well for his chances of being available this weekend against the Chargers. The Patriots' upcoming injury report will reveal the tight end's participation level Wednesday, but chances are that Smith be listed as limited.

Smith exited Sunday's game against the Jets after suffering a shoulder injury, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Prior to leaving the contest, Smith caught both of his targets for 52 yards and carried once for five yards. In his absence, added looks in the passing game will be available for fellow tight end Hunter Henry.

Smith, who logged 39 of a possible 54 snaps on offense in Sunday's 35-29 overtime loss to the Cowboys, caught just one pass (on two targets) for nine yards in the contest, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry was on the field for 37 snaps, en route to catching both of his targets for 25 yards and a TD. With a 16/124/1 stat line through six games, Smith's fantasy value has been limited thus far, while operating in a true time-share with Henry.

Smith, who was on the field for 28 of a possible 59 snaps on offense in Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Buccaneers, finished the contest with three catches on five targets for 14 yards and a TD, NESN's Zack Cox reports.

Fellow tight end Hunter Henry started the game and logged 40 snaps, hauling in four of his five targets for 32 yards. Smith's first TD in a New England uniform helped his Week 4 fantasy cause, but continuing to operate in a time-share caps his weekly ceiling as a streaming lineup option.

Smith logged 30 of a possible 72 snaps on offense in Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Saints, en route to catching one of his six targets for four yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, fellow tight end Hunter Henry was on the field for 52 snaps, hauling in five of his six targets for 36 yards. The six targets were actually a season-high for Smith, who saw five looks in each of his first two games, however it was a rough day for the 26-year-old, whose bobbled pass in the third quarter resulted in a pick-six. Smith will look to rebound in Week 4 versus the Buccaneers, but with a time-share in play, his weekly production could be sporadic.

Smith (hip) caught four of five targets for 28 yards in Sunday's 25-6 win over the Jets.

Smith suited up after battling a hip injury during the week. James White and Jakobi Meyers tied for the team lead in targets while Smith checked in third in the category, just ahead of fellow tight end Hunter Henry (four). The Patriots have just one passing touchdown heading into a Week 3 date with the Saints, as New England's formula for winning games revolves around the defense and running game.

Smith (hip) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Jets.

Smith, who was added to the Patriots' Week 2 injury report Thursday, was able to practice in a limited fashion Friday, setting the stage for him to suit up Sunday. As long as he avoids any setbacks, look for Smith to once again combine with Hunter Henry to form a 1-2 punch in an offense that figures to utilize plenty of two tight-end sets when both players are available. In New England's Week 1 loss to Miami, Smith logged 55 of a possible 75 snaps on offense, en route to hauling in all five of his targets for 42 yards, while Henry was on the field for 54 snaps, catching his three targets for 31 yards. With a time-share in play, the duo's weekly target volume will be difficult to predict, but steady playing time should be on tap for the key offseason free-agent acquisitions, health permitting.

Smith (hip) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets after logging limited practices both Thursday and Friday.

The fact that Smith was able to practice Friday -- albeit in a limited fashion -- after being added to the injury report Thursday suggests that he has a decent chance to suit up for Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET contest. If he ends up limited or out this weekend, though, fellow tight end Hunter Henry would be in line for an increased profile in the Patriots' Week 2 passing attack.

Smith (hip) was limited at practice Thursday.

Smith was added to the Patriots' Week 2 injury report Thursday, so it remains to be seen if his Thursday limitations were maintenance-related or indicative of an in-practice injury. What he's able to do Friday will thus be telling, but if Smith is sidelined or limited at all Sunday against the Jets, added opportunities would be available for fellow tight end Hunter Henry.

Smith logged 55 of a possible 75 snaps on offense in Sunday's 17-16 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Meanwhile, Hunter Henry was on the field for 54 snaps, with the Patriots, as expected, featuring their share of two-TE sets in Week 1. Smith ended up catching all five of his targets for 42 yards, while fumbling once (recovered), with Henry hauling in all three of his targets for 31 yards. As long as both Smith and Henry are available, their weekly target volume will be tough to predict, but it does at least seem that steady playing time is on tap for the duo.

Smith and fellow newcomer Hunter Henry, who both dealt with minor injuries during the preseason, approach Week 1 healthy and poised to form a 1-2 combo at tight end for the Patriots, Nicole Yang of the Boston Globe reports.

Though the Patriots also added wideouts Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne in free agency, the team's aggressive pursuit of Smith and Henry, as well as their lucrative contract terms, point to the the team rolling out plenty of two-TE sets in an offense now helmed by QB Mac Jones. From a fantasy perspective, both players should have their share of productive outings, but the presence of another talented pass catcher like Henry could end up cutting into Smith's weekly ceiling.

Smith (ankle) is present for Monday's practice, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

Smith missed three straight practices due to a low ankle sprain before missing Friday's preseason matchup against the Eagles. He may still end up having his reps limited Monday, but rejoining teammates in at least some capacity could bode well for Smith's chances of suiting up for the Patriots' final exhibition contest, Aug. 29 against the Giants.

Smith (ankle) isn't expected to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Eagles, Andrew Callahan of Boston Herald reports.

The same applies to Hunter Henry (shoulder) and Matt LaCosse. As a result, Devin Asiasi could be busy Thursday, while fullback Jakob Johnson could also see some snaps in two-TE sets versus the Eagles.

Smith (ankle) isn't practicing Tuesday, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports.

Smith has missed back-to-back sessions after suffering a low ankle sprain in Sunday's practice. He'll presumably miss Thursday's preseason game against Philadelphia, but it's possible he makes it back for the exhibition finale versus the Giants on Aug. 29. Fellow Patriots tight end Hunter Henry has made enough progress with his shoulder injury to travel with the team for joint practices in Philadelphia, but it doesn't sound like he's done much on the field so far.

Smith was diagnosed with a low left ankle sprain following Sunday's practice, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

During a 1-on-1 drill, Smith got tangled up with a defensive back, had an awkward landing and limped to the sideline. After an examination of his left foot, he could miss some practice in the short term, but the injury isn't deemed to be a serious one. Elsewhere in the tight end room, Hunter Henry returned to practice Sunday after missing the past week due to a shoulder issue.

Smith (foot/ankle) exited Sunday's practice early, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Reiss notes that the tight end "got tangled up with a defensive back in a low-speed 1-on-1 drill, landed a bit awkwardly, and limped off" during the session. Given that Smith didn't end up returning to the field, we'll consider him day-to-day for now. Meanwhile, fellow free-agent addition Hunter Henry (shoulder) returned to practice Sunday.

Smith caught one of two targets for 16 yards in Thursday's 22-13 preseason win over Washington.

Smith's lone catch came on a pass from Cam Newton on New England's second possession. Fellow offseason addition Hunter Henry (shoulder) could miss the rest of the preseason, leaving Smith atop New England's tight end depth chart. Smith handled himself well in such a role with the Titans last season, racking up career highs in catches (41), receiving yards (448) and touchdowns (eight).

As expected, Smith (hamstring) has been a practice participant during training camp, ESPN's Mike Reiss reports.

The free-agent acquisition previously missed time with a hamstring issue, but Smith has been working fully in camp and will now be part of the Patriots' new 1-2 punch at tight end, joined by fellow newcomer Hunter Henry. Though Henry's presence creates the possibility that a time-share could somewhat hamper Smith's target volume, it's also reasonable to expect that both players will have a decent fantasy floor due to the likelihood that multiple tight end sets will be a key component of New England's offense in 2021.

Smith (hamstring) is expected to be available when the Patriots open training camp next week, Nick O'Malley of Masslive.com reports.

Smith missed most of minicamp due to his injury, but the Patriots' high profile free-agent addition is now poised to get back into the mix for training camp. His addition, along with the team's signing of Hunter Henry, effectively re-makes New England's tight end corps, with the versatile Smith destined to be a key target for whoever ends up being the franchise's starting QB in 2021.

Smith (hamstring) won't participate in Tuesday's minicamp practice, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports.

Smith's absence doesn't come as a surprise after he sustained a left hamstring strain in the Patriots' first minicamp session Monday. The Patriots will wrap up their camp Wednesday, so it may be a challenge for Smith to gain clearance for that workout, too. He should be back to full health ahead of training camp in late July, however.

Smith departed Monday's practice early due to an apparent hamstring injury and did not return, Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com reports.

It was Smith's first time on the practice field in front of reporters this offseason and he dropped a couple of passes prior to his early departure. It doesn't sound as though the hamstring issue is believed to be very serious, so he could be back in on practice relatively soon. Of course, it's possible the team will take the cautious route and hold him out of the remainder of this week's minicamp, which would then push his return to training camp in July.

In addition to Smith, the Patriots have also signed fellow tight end Hunter Henry, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

From a scheme standpoint, the duo of Smith and Henry points to the Patriots offense using plenty of two-TE sets this coming season. It's an approach that's worked for the team in the past. From a fantasy standpoint, both players should have productive outings, but the presence of another talented pass catcher like Henry figures to cut into Smith's weekly ceiling. In any case, New England's aggressive approach in free agency has resulted in a revamped passing attack filled with multiple options for QB Cam Newton.

Smith has agreed to a four-year, $50 million deal with the Patriots, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Per the report, $31.25 million of Smith's deal is fully guaranteed. This aggressive move by the Patriots provides a major upgrade for the team at the tight end position. Smith, who caught 41 of his 65 targets for 448 yards and eight TDs in 15 games with the Titans last season, immediate ascends to the top of a depth chart that currently also includes Ryan Izzo, Devin Asiasi, Dalton Keeneand Matt LaCosse. Of that group, Smith profiles as the clear-cut top pass catcher and should provide QB Cam Newton with a much-needed red-zone weapon in 2021.

Smith won't receive a franchise tag, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith and Hunter Henry profile as the top free-agent TEs this offseason, likely targeting deals around $10 million per season. Smith is a reliable blocker and receiver who excels after the catch, though his route tree in Tennessee largely focused on the flats and short crossing routes. A change of scenery might come with the opportunity to expand his role as a pass catcher.

Smith tallied one reception on two targets for eight yards in Week 17 against the Texans.

Ryan Tannehill only targeted five players all game, yet the tight end corps commanded only four total targets. That limited Smith to one reception, his fourth game with one or fewer receptions on the season. Though inconsistent, Smith took another small step forward in his fourth professional campaign, racking up career-best marks in receptions, yards, targets and touchdowns -- all despite missing one game. Smith's rookie contract will expire at the conclusion of the 2020 season, though his focus will remain on the team's upcoming playoff matchup against the Ravens.

Smith caught three passes (seven targets) for 30 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 40-14 loss to Green Bay.

Ryan Tannehill and the entire Tennessee passing attack struggled mightily in frigid conditions, but Smith was the lucky beneficiary of the only passing touchdown of the contest, allowing the tight end finish with a respectable fantasy output. The 24-year-old is having another modest season, eclipsing his previous season high of 439 yards by one yard Sunday. The only noticeable difference in his production has been the uptick in touchdowns (eight) after finishing with three or fewer scores in his previous three seasons as a pro. Smith's improvement as a red-zone target does boost his value at a shallow position, just don't expect elite production and you will not be disappointed. A favorable matchup against a terrible Houston defense looms in Week 17.

Smith (knee) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's contest at Green Bay, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

Smith logged a midweek absence from practice Thursday, but he otherwise practice in full, clearing him for Week 16 action. On the season, he's consistently earned at least 70 percent of the snaps on offense, doing so in 11 of 13 appearances. That said, Smith's production has been sporadic en route to 37 catches, 410 yards and seven touchdowns on 56 targets.

Smith (knee) is slated to return to practice Friday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

We'll circle back to see how the Titans officially list the tight end for Sunday night's game against the Packers, but Smith's return to the field Friday bodes well for his chances of being cleared to play this weekend.

Smith (knee) didn't practice Thursday, John Glennon of BroadwaySportsMedia.com reports.

The tight end wasn't listed on Wednesday's injury report, so his Thursday addition is notable. What Smith is able to do at practice Friday should clarify if he's in any danger of missing Sunday night's game against the Packers. If he is limited or out for the contest, added targets would be available for Anthony Firkser and Geoff Swaim, along with MyCole Pruitt to a lesser degree.

Smith recorded five receptions on five targets for 52 yards in Week 15 against the Lions.

Smith returned from a one-game absence and tied for the team lead in receptions. He hauled in a few deep receptions, including a 19-yard catch on the team's first drive and a 16-yard reception later in the contest. Perhaps most importantly, Smith was clearly Ryan Tannehill's favorite tight-end target as Anthony Firkser and MyCole Pruitt were both limited to one reception. Smith will look to build on the effort in Week 16 against the Packers.

Smith recorded two receptions on two targets for 20 yards in Week 14 against the Jaguars.

All of the Titans' pass-catchers besides A.J. Brown were limited due to game script as Ryan Tannehill took to the air only 24 times. After missing the team's Week 13 matchup against the Browns, Smith made the most of his looks. Even so, he was out-targeted by Geoff Swaim, who also hauled in a touchdown. Smith has recorded more than two receptions only once since Week 6, leaving him as an unreliable option in Week 15 against the Lions.

Smith (knee) practiced fully Thursday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Smith sat out this past Sunday's loss to the Browns, but his return to a full practice Thursday puts him on track to resume action this weekend against the Jaguars. With Anthony Firkser also in the Titans' tight end mix, Smith profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option in Week 14, but he has at least been helpful in TD-heavy formats, with seven trips to the end zone in 11 games this season, including scores in two of his last three outings.

Smith (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Terry McCormick of TItanInsider.com reports.

Smith was sidelined by a knee injury last week after failing to practice all week, so his limited session Wednesday was certainly a step in the right direction. If he's cleared to play, Smith would have an enticing matchup Sunday against a Jaguars defense that he burned for a pair of touchdowns back in Week 2. Otherwise, Anthony Firkser would continue to benefit from additional snaps in Smith's place.

Coach Mike Vrabel ruled out Smith (knee) for Sunday's game versus the Browns, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

Smith missed every practice this week as he tends to a knee injury and now will sit out for the first time this season. His significant snap share thus is slated to filter down to Geoff Swaim, Anthony Firkser and MyCole Pruitt.

Smith (knee) didn't practice Friday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

This marks a third consecutive missed practice for Smith this week following a goose egg in last week's game, so he seems more likely than not to sit out against the Browns on Sunday. If Smith can't go, Anthony Firkser, Geoff Swaim and MyCole Pruitt would all slide up Tennessee's tight end depth chart.

Smith (knee) didn't practice Thursday, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Smith also missed Wednesday's practice, so what the tight end is able to do on the field Friday, if anything, will be telling with regard to his status for Sunday's game against the Browns. Though he logged a 75 percent snap share in the Titans' Week 12 win over the Colts, Smith -- who's scored eight TDs this season -- wasn't targeted in the contest.

Smith (undisclosed) is not present at the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Smith handled his usual 75 percent of offensive snaps against the Colts in Week 12, and it didn't appear as though he was noticeably injured at any point during the contest. If it is revealed that Smith is dealing with injury, and not just receiving a day of rest, it will be interesting to monitor Anthony Firkser's involvement at practice.

Smith did not receive a target in Week 12 against Colts.

The Titans attempted only 22 passes in their blowout win over the Colts. That provides a partial explanation for Smith's lack of involvement, though tight ends Jeff Swaim and Anthony Firkser both drew targets in the contest. Like many of the Titans' secondary receivers, Smith commands unreliable volume and now has two or fewer catches six or his last seven games. He'll draw a matchup against Cleveland in Week 13.

Smith recorded four receptions on six targets for 20 yards and a touchdown in Week 11 against the Ravens.

Smith got the Titans' offense on the board, capping their 79-yard game-opening drive with a one-yard touchdown reception. He also suffered a right ankle injury late in the third quarter, but returned to the game with his foot wrapped,John Glennon of BroadwaySportsMedia.com reports. Despite missing some of the action, Smith has found the end zone in two of his last three games. Due to lack of volume, he'll remain a touchdown dependent option in Week 12 against the Colts.

Smith brought in two of six targets for 14 yards and scored a one-yard touchdown on his only rush attempt in the Titans' 34-17 loss to the Colts on Thursday night.

The athletic tight end couldn't do much through the air on a night when Ryan Tannehill threw for just 147 yards, but his career rushing score in the second quarter helped salvage his fantasy night to an extent. Smith pass-catching production continues to be hard to trust on a week-to-week basis, however, as he's now recorded no more than two receptions or 32 receiving yards in five consecutive games after posting and 18-221-5 line over his four contests of the campaign. He'll look to bounce back to that caliber of numbers in a Week 11 battle against the Ravens on Sunday, Nov. 22.

Smith recorded two receptions on two targets for 32 yards and a touchdown in Week 9 against the Bears.

Smith was out-targeted by fellow tight end Anthony Firkser, but managed to rack up more yards and find the end zone. His score came midway through the fourth quarter on a play action pass when he was left open leaking off the line from the two-yard line. Despite that production, Smith has had a hard time earning consistent targets since the return of Corey Davis, as he has seen two or fewer targets in three of four contests since Week 6. He'll draw a Week 10 matchup against the Colts.

Smith caught both his targets for 29 yards during Sunday's 31-20 loss to the Bengals.

Smith actually finished behind fellow tight end Anthony Firkser in targets and receiving yards, with both tight ends hauling in a pair of catches. While he was once a focal point in the passing offense, his role has diminished to the tune of four catches (on eight targets) for 51 yards combined over the last three games. This is likely a result of A.J. Brown and Corey Davis both back and producing regularly, which should continue in next Sunday's matchup with the Bears.

Smith recorded one reception on four targets for nine yards in Week 7 against the Steelers.

Smith battled an ankle injury throughout the week, but managed a full practice on Thursday prior to being active for the Week 7 contest. It's unclear if was held back by the injury or tough matchup, but Smith turned in his second consecutive one catch performance. Prior to this downturn in production, it appeared Smith was in for a breakout season by recording 13 receptions, 181 yards and three touchdowns in the team's first three games. He'll look to get back on track in Week 8 against Cincinnati.

Smith (ankle) returned to a full practice Thursday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Per Erik Bacharach of The Tennessean, the tight end took part in Wednesday's stretch but headed back inside the team's facility immediately afterward. With a full practice Thursday under his belt, Smith will set his sights on bouncing back from the one-catch, 13-yard effort he logged in this past Sunday's win over the Texans prior to his third-quarter exit. Heading into that contest Smith had recorded a fantasy-friendly 18/221/5 stat line through his first four outings this season.

Smith (ankle) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Smith is nursing an ankle sprain sustained during Sunday's win over the Texans, the severity of which knocked him out of action in the third quarter. The Titans reportedly consider Smith's injury minor, but his status for Week 7 will remain in question as long as he's being held out from handling full practice reps. A game-time absence by Smith would provide Anthony Firkser, who broke out with 113 yards and a touchdown versus Houston, to operate as Tennessee's clear top tight end against the Steelers.

Smith is nursing a "minor" ankle sprain sustained during Sunday's 42-36 win over the Texans, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Smith was forced out of action in the third quarter Sunday, before which he'd been limited to one 13-yard catch. Though Schefter notes that the starting tight end is expected to be listed as questionable for the Titans' Week 7 game against the Steelers, the team will no doubt wait until Smith has been thoroughly evaluated at practice before officially dealing him an injury tag. Anthony Firkser managed eight catches for 113 yards and a score against the Texans, so his competence could allow Tennessee to feel secure allowing Smith the luxury of time to rest should he need it.

Smith was forced out of Sunday's game versus the Texans with an ankle injury, Paul Kuharsky of 104.5 The Zone Nashville reports.

Smith exited the game in the third quarter, and he did some sprints in front of trainers on the sidelines before taking a seat on the bench. He recorded one 13-yard reception before leaving the game. Anthony Firkser will operate as the top tight end if Smith is unable to return.

Smith (quadriceps) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus the Texans, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

Smith started the week as a non-participant but practiced without limitations Friday, which gives him a green light for Week 6. The fourth-year tight end has been fantastic this season, as he's posted 18 receptions for 221 yards and five touchdowns through four games. Smith's value could take a slight hit if Corey Davis (illness) returns from the reserve/COVID-19 list, but as one of the top fantasy tight ends this year, he should be utilized accordingly.

Smith was listed as a limited participant in Thursday's practice with a quadriceps injury, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

After Tennessee listed him as a non-participant on its estimated practice report Wednesday, Smith was able to take his activity up a notch when the Titans got back on the field Thursday. Assuming he's at least able to maintain his activity level in the team's final practice of the week Friday, Smith should be in good shape to play Sunday versus the Texans. With Corey Davis (illness) still on the Titans' reserve/COVID-19 list, Smith could be in store for another elevated target count Week 6. In the team's blowout win over the Bills on Tuesday, Smith hauled in five of seven targets for 40 yards and two scores.

Smith caught five of his seven targets for 40 receiving yards and two touchdowns during Tuesday's 42-16 win against Buffalo.

Smith and recently-returned-from-injury A.J. Brown were the clear top options for quarterback Ryan Tannehill, attracting five of the team's six red-zone targets on the night. The Florida International standout has been one of the fantasy revelations at tight end thus far in 2020, as his five TD receptions in four games are more than he managed in his preceding 21 games combined. Smith faces a Houston defense in Week 6 that is conceding a 72.7 percent completion rate to opposing tight ends on the season.

Smith recorded five receptions on eight targets for 61 yards in Week 3 against the Vikings.

Smith led the team with eight targets, continuing his target spike to begin the 2020 season. He delivered several big plays in the, including receptions of 21, 16 and 14 yards. Smith appears to be in the midst of a fourth-year breakout, as he's already accrued 20 targets -- nearly half of his previous season-best. The major caveat is his involvement once A.J. Brown (knee) is able to return, though Smith has shown good chemistry with quarterback Ryan Tannehill through three games.

Smith (ankle) practiced fully Thursday, John Glennon of The Athletic reports.

Smith didn't practice Wednesday, but the tight end's return to a full session Thursday puts him on track to suit up Sunday against the Vikings. Smith caught four of his five targets for 84 yards and two TDs in Week 2's 33-30 win over the Jaguars and figures to remain busy again this weekend, with top wideout A.J. Brown (knee) still banged up.

Smith (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Erik Bacharach of The Tennessean reports.

Smith logged 54 of a possible 62 snaps on offense in Week 2's win over the Jaguars, en route to hauling in four of his five targets for 84 yards and two TDs, so it's possible that his practice reps are simply being managed to start the week. Smith's return to the field Thursday, in any capacity, would support that notion and put him on track to serve as Tennessee's top tight end Sunday against the Vikings.

Smith caught four of five targets, racking up 84 receiving yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 33-30 win against the Jaguars.

The 25-year-old tight end is off to a sterling start to his 2020 campaign, having already matched his career high in touchdown receptions through just two outings. Smith's involvement in the passing offense has significantly spiked, as he is on pace for over 95 targets this year after never exceeding 44 targets in any of his first three professional seasons. There's no guarantee that Smith continues to produce the way he has between Week 1 and 2 once A.J. Brown (knee) makes his return to the receiving corps, but it is notable that Brown (eight) and Smith (seven) were only separated by one target when both were in the lineup against Denver last Monday. Heading into Week 3, Smith prepares to face a Vikings defense that surrendered five catches and 111 yards to Indianapolis' Mo Alie-Cox on Sunday.

Smith hauled in four of seven targets for 36 yards and a touchdown during Monday's 16-14 win against Denver.

Entering his fourth NFL season out of Florida International, Smith kicks off 2020 atop Tennessee's tight end depth chart. The 25-year-old already has 39 career starts and 45 appearances to his name, yet he has never surpassed 45 targets, 450 receiving yards, or three touchdowns in any professional campaign. His Week 1 usage indicates a significant increase in all three of those statistical departments, as he was just one target behind Corey Davis and A.J Brown for a team-high. Next up for Smith is a Week 2 matchup against a Jaguars defense that allowed five catches and 69 yards to opposing tight ends in its season opener.

Smith is the undisputed top tight end in Tennessee, Jim Wyatt of the team's official website reports.

Smith was the top guy after Delanie Walker suffered season-ending injuries the past two years, handling 75.3 percent snap share in 2018 (13 games) and 70.8 percent share in 2019 (16 games). Smith's impressive work after the catch helped him produce 12.7 yards per reception and 9.4 per target the past two years, but he's never seen consistent volume in the run-first Tennessee offense, averaging only 3.7 targets in the nine games Walker missed last year. While Walker is now out of the picture, the Titans have shown some affinity for using Anthony Firkser over Smith in obvious passing situations -- a role that allowed Firkser to average 2.4 targets over the final nine games last year. Smith has the talent to be a high-end fantasy asset in the right role, but it isn't clear if he'll get enough volume to provide steady production in Tennessee this season. He's entering the final year of his rookie contract and will turn 25 in late August.

Smith hauled in 35 of his 44 targets for 439 yards and three touchdowns across 16 games in the 2019 season.

Smith benefitted from another injury-plagued campaign for Delanie Walker (ankle), posting career-best marks in targets, yards, and receptions. He also showed strong rapport with quarterback Ryan Tannehill, racking up more than 50 receiving yards in four of the nine games that Tannehill started. However, plenty of questions remain for the fourth-year tight end heading into the 2020 season, particularly the potential return of Walker. Even if Smith were to remain the starting tight end in Tennessee, he may be an inconsistent performer due to the overall lack of passing volume in the Titans' offense.

Smith secured two of three targets for 12 yards and a touchdown in the Titans' 28-12 divisional-round win over the Ravens on Saturday.

The third-year pro opened the scoring in the upset with a 12-yard scoring grab late in the first quarter, and although he was minimally involved thereafter, his role in helping the Titans establish a positive early tone was certainly invaluable. Smith's usage has fluctuated considerably at times this season, but he'll look to make an impact in next Sunday's AFC Championship Game versus either the Texans or Chiefs, two teams that were vulnerable to the tight end position all season.

Smith's teammate Delanie Walker (ankle) has been placed on injured reserve.

Smith can play the rest of the season without looking over his shoulder, knowing he's locked in as the No. 1 tight end in Tennessee. His pass-catching production has been much less consistent than his playing time, with Smith averaging 3.3 catches for 31.5 yards on 4.5 targets in the four games Walker has missed, playing 73, 72, 78 and 94 percent of offensive snaps in those contests. The snap share bump from Week 12 could prove useful if it holds, though Smith didn't draw a single target despite rarely leaving the field in a 42-20 win over the Jaguars. He should at least have some some level of pass-game involvement Week 13 at Indianapolis.

Smith is slated to serve as the No. 1 tight end for the fourth consecutive game in Sunday's Week 12 tilt against the Jaguars with Delanie Walker (ankle) declared inactive for the contest.

Smith has been solid in his extended opportunity of late, bringing in 13 of 18 targets for 126 yards and a touchdown over that three-game period that Walker has missed. The athletic third-year pro also recorded three receptions for 64 yards in the Week 7 game in which Walker was hurt after just five snaps, so he offers some reasonable upside versus a Jaguars defense that's allowed five touchdowns to tight ends this season.

Smith's teammate Delanie Walker (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Smith took advantage of the same situation with a 6-78-1 receiving line in a Week 8 win over Tampa Bay, before dropping to 3-18-0 in last week's loss to the Panthers. His target volume has been encouraging, but Smith does lose some snaps and routes to Anthony Firkser, with the Titans still using a three-man rotation at tight end (MyCole Pruitt mostly gets blocking snaps).

Smith is poised for another start Week 9 against the Panthers after teammate Delanie Walker (ankle) was ruled out for the contest, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Smith took full advantage of Walker's injury during last week's 27-23 win over Tampa Bay, catching six of seven targets for 78 yards and a touchdown. He'll face a much tougher pass defense this time around, but his rapport with Ryan Tannehill should lead to a fair share of targets. Of course, Tannehill also seems to have taken a liking to Anthony Firkser, who caught three of five targets for 43 yards last week, logging 56 percent of snaps on offense (compared to 73 percent for Smith).

Smith may be in line for more targets with Delanie Walker (ankle) sidelined Sunday against the Buccaneers.

Even with Walker active this season, Smith has started six of the Titans' seven games while getting a 58.8 percent share of the offensive snaps, most among the team's tight ends. Smith has flashed at times, with four 20-plus yard receptions, but overall his line reads 9-161-0 on 12 targets. Walker told John Glennon of The Athletic on Friday that he's dealing with an injury to the same ankle that was dislocated last season, so the veteran could be a week-to-week consideration for the foreseeable future. Such a scenario opens up Walker's 4.4 targets per game for the likes of Smith, MyCole Pruitt and Anthony Firkser in an offense that looks somewhat formidable with Ryan Tannehill and not Marcus Mariota under center.

Smith (knee) wasn't listed on Wednesday's injury report.

It has been a long road to recovery for Smith, who suffered a season-ending MCL injury in December. He finally shed his knee brace Monday and is working at full speed now. Smith was a solid tight end before the injury, hauling in 20 of 31 targets for 258 yards and three scores, although he's the clear No. 2 behind Delanie Walker.

Smith (knee) isn't wearing a brace over his leg Monday at practice, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Removed from the PUP list two weeks ago, Smith didn't play in any preseason games but seems to have a shot at suiting up for Week 1 in Cleveland. With Delanie Walker back in good health, Smith profiles as the second tight end in a run-first offense.

Smith (knee) was taken off the PUP list Monday, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Limited to side work throughout training camp, Smith passed a physical and now can return to practice. It isn't clear if he'll make an appearance in the preseason or be active for Week 1, but the decision to remove him from the PUP list suggests he's expected to play at some point in September. With Delanie Walker making a full recovery from his own season-ending injury, Smith's playing time mostly will be limited to multi-TE formations.