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Smith, 31, joins the Packers following a season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he appeared in all 17 games, recording 38 receptions for 222 yards and two touchdowns. His arrival in Green Bay marks his sixth stop in the NFL, bringing a wealth of experience to a position group that has faced recent personnel challenges.
Addressing roster depth at tight end
The Packers' decision to sign Smith addresses a clear need for experienced support behind starter Tucker Kraft. Kraft is currently working his way back from ACL surgery but is expected to be available for the team's opening game. The depth at the position was further tested when Luke Musgrave suffered a neck injury during June minicamp, an issue that sidelined him for the entirety of training camp and left him on the physically unable to perform list.
Prior to the signing, the Packers' options at tight end were limited. Josh Whyle, who appeared in eight games last season with five receptions, and Drake Dabney, who has two career NFL appearances, were the primary alternatives on the roster. Smith’s arrival provides the team with a proven veteran presence who has navigated various systems throughout his career.
A veteran career path
Smith entered the league as a third-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in the 2017 draft, where he spent four seasons. Since then, he has played for the New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins, and most recently, the Pittsburgh Steelers. His most productive campaign came during his time with the Dolphins, where he recorded a career-high 884 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection.
The Steelers released Smith prior to the new league year, a move that provided the franchise with approximately $7 million in salary cap relief. As he joins the Packers, Smith will look to integrate quickly into the offense and provide a reliable target for the team's passing attack as they prepare for the start of the new campaign.
