One team’s salary cap casualty could be another team’s valuable addition. That may be the case for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Washington Commanders.
Pittsburgh is in a position where it needs to determine whether to move on from veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, a projected $12 million cap hit. If they do part ways, the Commanders should be paying remarkably close attention.
The Steelers are evaluating several roster decisions that could free up cap space. Smith’s name has surfaced as a potential candidate. Given their current system, one must wonder if Smith can fully justify that $12 million in cap space.
This is where the Commanders enter the conversation.
Why Smith to the Commanders Makes Sense
Washington is in a very different position than Pittsburgh. Fortunately, they have plenty of cap space and are not trying to squeeze whatever juice is left out of every veteran player on the roster. The Commanders have room to make moves, and more importantly, they have plenty of roster spots where they need stability and veteran experience.
They are in a position where they need to identify value, not just a big name to make a splashy headline.
If Smith hits the open market, the Commanders will be looking at a veteran tight end who has proven he can play at a prominent level. There are times when a player plateaus, not necessarily due to their ability, but because of the system they are in. Sam Darnold is a perfect example.
For the Commanders, it’s not like they would be picking up a veteran who was cut due to deficient performance, but simply because he would be a cap casualty. These are the kinds of moves that may not make big headlines but still have a long-term impact on the success of an organization.
Building With Purpose: Harris and Peters’ Roster Strategy
Since new owner Josh Harris and General Manager Adam Peters have taken the reins, they have not been making quick fixes. They believe in adding veterans in specific roles when it makes sense. Smith at tight end makes sense and fills an immediate roster need. He brings veteran leadership and can be a day-one contributor, without a prohibitive cost.
Just because Smith is currently earning $12 million does not necessarily mean he would get that in Washington. After he is released, the market will reset, and Washington can pick him up for a number that makes both parties happy, giving them continued flexibility in free agency.
Locker Room Impact: Smith to the Commanders Fit
As far as the locker room goes, Smith would be a welcome addition. The Commanders’ roster has gotten younger, which is very encouraging for the future. However, having a veteran with a lot of playoff experience in the locker room would serve well to younger talent.
There is no question that Washington can afford the move because it certainly can. The question is whether Peters sees value in Smith and where or not he would fit into the team culture. The Commanders have discussed adding weapons for quarterback Jayden Daniels. While Smith has great hands and can be an option to pass to, he is also an above-average blocker who can provide additional protection for Daniels.
If Pittsburgh does, in fact, end up releasing Smith, there will be several teams looking at him. If the opportunity to pick Smith up presents itself, the Commanders would be foolish to pass on it.
