The Miami Dolphins have made headlines this week after the NFL released its gameday accountability report for Week 13 of the 2024 season. In a surprising turn of events, only one player from the Dolphins was fined, and it’s a significant name for the team—tight end Jonnu Smith, a key target for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
A costly mistake for Smith
The National Football League has charged Jonnu Smith with a fine of $11,248 for an infraction that occurred during Miami’s disappointing 30-17 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Day. This fine was issued for a violation categorized as Unnecessary Roughness (striking/kicking/kneeing), which took place with 9:21 remaining in the first quarter.
Smith’s performance amidst the chaos
Despite the Dolphins’ struggles in Green Bay, Jonnu Smith showcased his talent on the field. Tagovailoa targeted him a remarkable 11 times, and Smith managed to catch 10 of those passes, racking up an impressive 113 yards. Although he didn’t find the end zone, his performance highlighted his importance to the Dolphins’ offense.
A season of career highs for Smith
Entering Week 14, Smith has already set career highs in several categories. With 58 catches for 648 yards and four touchdowns on 74 targets, he has become one of Tua’s most reliable weapons. After stints with the Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, and Atlanta Falcons, it seems Smith has finally found his groove in Miami. He signed a two-year, $8.4 million deal before the season, and he’s proving to be worth every penny.
Building chemistry with Tua
What makes Smith’s contributions even more impressive is his growing chemistry with Tua Tagovailoa. Alongside fellow pass catchers Tyreek Hill and Jayden Waddle, who have been with the team longer, Smith has quickly established himself as a favorite target. His ability to create separation and make crucial catches has been vital for the Dolphins, especially in tight situations.
The impact of the fine
While the fine may seem steep, it’s essential to remember that Smith is a professional athlete who has a responsibility to play within the rules. The NFL is serious about maintaining player safety, and penalties like these are a reminder of the importance of discipline on the field. Smith’s actions, while perhaps impulsive, will serve as a lesson as he continues to grow in his role with the Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) runs off of the field after the NFL, American Football Herren, USA game between the Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Rams on November 11, 2024 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.
Looking ahead
As the Dolphins prepare for their next matchup, all eyes will be on Jonnu Smith. Will he bounce back from this fine and continue to be a key contributor to Miami’s offense? With the playoffs approaching, every game counts, and the Dolphins will need Smith at his best. Fans will be eager to see how he and Tua can elevate their game together, especially after a challenging loss.
The Dolphins have a lot to prove as they navigate the remainder of the season. With Smith stepping up as a crucial player, the team has the potential to turn things around. It’s an exciting time for Miami fans, and the hope is that Smith’s performance will continue to shine, despite the bumps along the way.
