Jonnu Smith

BIOGRAPHY

Jonnu Andre Smith was born on August 22, 1995, in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raised by his parents, Wayne and Karen Smith, he is the youngest of six children. His journey to becoming a professional American football tight end player was filled with unique stories, many stemming from his childhood experiences in Philadelphia.

At the tender age of five, young Smith began participating in Pop Warner football, and his destiny was set in motion. As he grew, however, Smith experienced numerous trials and tribulations. When his brother was arrested and his friend was tragically killed in street violence, he moved in with his maternal aunt and uncle in Ocala, Florida, to ensure his safety.

Smith started playing high school football at West Port High School and started to build a strong reputation around himself within the local community, despite not being a particularly touted recruit. Over time, his skills and tenacity caught the eye of scouts, earning him a scholarship to Florida International.

At Florida International University (FIU), Smith majored in liberal studies while playing college football. His freshman season in 2013 proved impressive, with Smith playing 12 games and achieving 388 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He gained even more acclaim during his sophomore season in 2014, recording 710 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 12 games. His junior and senior years were equally noteworthy, a testament to his relentless work ethic.

Smith’s outstanding college career led to his selection to the 2017 Senior Bowl, although he was overshadowed by some other tight end prospects considered likely first and second-round picks. However, his performance was remarkable enough to earn him an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana. He excelled, placing in the top five among tight ends in the majority of the drills.

Remaining in the limelight, Smith was drafted in the third round by the Tennessee Titans in the 2017 NFL Draft, becoming the sixth tight end selected. He then signed a four-year contract with the Titans, worth approximately $3.10 million.

Smith’s NFL debut did not disappoint, and he quickly made his mark, scoring his first NFL touchdown during a match against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Smith continued to put forth strong performances, notably during Week 5 against the Miami Dolphins. His hard work and skill earned him recognition as the Titans’ top tight end on the depth chart after Delanie Walker’s unfortunate ankle injury.

A key moment in his career arrived in 2021 when the New England Patriots signed Smith to a four-year, $50 million contract. He stepped up his game, proving to be a worthy asset for the Patriots. However, after a year, Smith was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a seventh-round draft pick in 2023.

During his time with the Falcons, Smith lived up to the expectations set for him in his position and finished the season with a career-high 50 receptions for 582 yards and three touchdowns. However, his time with the team came to an end when he was released by the Falcons in 2024.

Along came the Miami Dolphins, who signed Smith to a two-year contract, providing yet another opportunity for the tight end player to prove his prowess on the field once more.

Throughout his ups and downs, Smith held steadfast in his faith. He has often voiced his belief that his hurdles and triumphs were all part of a divine plan for him. His unwavering faith and determination were also seen in his personal life as he named his son Jaiyen’s middle name Quasim in honor of his late best friend, Willie “Quasim” Jefferson.

Notable in his life story is also his mother Karen, who single-handedly raised six children after the tragic death of her husband and Smith’s father, Wayne. Smith credits his mother for his accomplishments to date, saying she’s his rock who provided everything they needed.

Smith’s life has not been devoid of challenges. In a turbulent incident in 2016, he found himself on the receiving end of an attack from his then-girlfriend, Mary Gaspar, which resulted in severe burns and the premature end of his senior year. The charges against Gaspar were ultimately dropped, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the struggles Smith has experienced on his road to success.

Today, Jonnu Smith remains a respected player in the National Football League (NFL), continuing his journey on the turf with the Miami Dolphins. His story serves as an example of unwavering determination, remarkable faith, and the power of resilience. Despite his life’s challenges, he has risen above to become a celebrated professional athlete, embodying the spirit of grit and triumph in the face of adversity.