Smith gets 4-year deal

The Patriots have agreed to a 4-year deal with TE Jonnu Smith, agent Drew Rosenhaus tells ESPN. The pact includes $50 million, with $31.25 million guaranteed. Smith flashed intriguing athleticism and receiving ability across 3 seasons with the Titans. He has yet to eclipse 41 receptions or reach 450 receiving yards in a season, though. Smith saw particularly odd usage with last year, garnering just 12 more targets for the season than teammate Anthony Firkser. The size of this contract suggests New England plans to feature him more as a receiver. And a roster that saw only WR Jakobi Meyers reach 50 receptions last season presents plenty of opportunity for Smith. The TE will turn just 26 this August and looks like a high-upside fantasy prospect going forward. His arrival is bad news if you were hoping for a Year 2 breakout from TE Devin Asiasi.

There have been multiple reports of Patriots TE Jonnu Smith showing well in training camp workouts. Sounds like new QBs coach Joe Judge is a fan. "He had a terrific offseason for us," Judge said, per ESPN's Mike Reiss. The crowd of pass-catchers in New England is the biggest concern, limiting the opportunity for a guy who got a 4-year, $50 million deal in free agency last offseason. Reiss, at least, says the mere 18% of plays that put both Smith and Hunter Henry on the field last year should increase this season. Smith might still need a Henry injury to be usable outside of best-ball fantasy football leagues.

Patriots TE Jonnu Smith is soaking up all the reps he can get in OTAs after missing time last offseason. “My [2021 offseason] was choppy and I missed some quality time here. I recognize how valuable that time is. I’m here to take advantage of that," Smith said Monday. After inking a 4-year, $50 million deal with New England last year, Smith's 2021 campaign was a disaster. He turns just 27 in August, though, and is at least worth keeping an eye on this summer.

Patriots TE Jonnu Smith (shoulder) is active for tonight's game vs. the Falcons. He's not a fantasy option but does put a small dent in TE Hunter Henry's profile.

Patriots TE Jonnu Smith (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Thursday night's game vs. the Falcons. He's not a fantasy option, but his absence would be a boost for TE Hunter Henry.

Patriots TE Jonnu Smith (shoulder) is inactive for today's game vs. the Browns. Hopefully you weren't planning on using him. Smith's absence could mean an extra target or 2 for TE Hunter Henry.