The full contract details for Jonnu Smith, the Green Bay Packers’ new tight end, are out, and get this: he’s on a one-year deal that could max out at $2 million. Yeah, you read that right. After signing more than a week ago, we finally know the specifics, and it’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can change in the NFL.
Breaking Down Smith’s Bucks
ESPN’s Rob Demovsky spilled the tea, showing Smith nabbed a $350,000 signing bonus. His game checks, which are gonna be fully guaranteed this week since he’s a vested veteran, are worth $1.3 million. On top of that, he can reel in another $350,000 through per-game roster bonuses, but only if he actually suits up for every single game this season. So, that $2 million total? That’s his ceiling. The wildest part is his cap charge will also be a clean $2 million. Why? Because the NFL considers those roster bonuses “likely to be earned,” especially since Smith played all 17 games with the Pittsburgh Steelers last year.
A Massive Pay Cut for the Veteran
This $2 million deal is honestly wild when you look at Smith’s past earnings. Talk about a pay cut! After his rookie contract, he’s seen some serious cash:
- 2021: $16.9 million (Patriots)
- 2022: $9.8 million (Patriots)
- 2023: $8.5 million (Falcons)
- 2024: $4.3 million (Dolphins)
- 2025: $9 million (Steelers)
He is making significantly less than he ever has as a veteran in the league, by a long shot. This isn’t just a small dip, it’s a massive adjustment for the tight end.
Familiar Faces and a New Role
Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur is banking on Smith hitting the ground running in the regular season. Why the confidence? Smith previously played for LaFleur back with the Tennessee Titans. Plus, Smith also played under Arthur Smith, a former LaFleur assistant in Tennessee, during his stints with the Falcons in 2023 and the Steelers in 2025. All that history and familiarity must be a big factor. Smith is already listed as the second-string tight end on their first depth chart of the regular season, slotted ahead of both Josh Whyle and Mark Redman. It’s clear they expect him to contribute right away.
Smith’s clearly betting on himself, taking such a lower offer for a chance to play for LaFleur again. Will that familiarity pay off for the Packers? We’ll see how quickly Smith can make an impact as their second-string guy, especially with that $2 million cap hit counting fully against them from the jump.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Acme Packing Company.
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