There are plenty of questions surrounding the Green Bay Packers‘ offense entering the 2026 NFL season, one of which concerns Jordan Love and the passing game. Matt LaFleur and Adam Stenavich are expected to lean on their attack with greater volume this season and have worked to position Love for success as much as possible.
On Thursday, the team continued such efforts, bolstering their pass-catching group by bringing in veteran tight end Jonnu Smith. The Packers inked Smith to a one-year deal on Thursday, pairing him alongside Tucker Kraft in the tight end room.
Backup tight end Luke Musgrave is working his way back from the PUP list, dealing with an ongoing neck injury. The addition of Smith provides much-needed depth to the passing game, as the former Pro Bowler looks to bounce back from a down year with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Smith suited up in all 17 games for Pittsburgh, but was limited to seven starts in an inconsistent role. He racked up 38 catches over 54 targets, notching 222 receiving yards and two touchdowns, adding a third score on the ground.
He’s sustained notable availability over the last three seasons, suiting up in every one of a possible 51 games during that stretch.
Packers Add Insurance Behind Tucker Kraft With Jonnu Smith Pickup
AP
Kraft is gearing up for a major bounce-back campaign after suffering a season-ending torn ACL. Before his knee injury, the star tight end was on pace for career-high production and emerged as Love’s top target during his third season.
His nine-game absence was the first of his career, as he had suited up in each of his 42 games to that point. The addition of Smith provides valuable insurance, should Kraft miss time again, though he’s expected to return at full strength for Week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Packers form one of the top tight end pairings in the NFC, while giving Love another reliable target in the passing game. Smith will provide valuable production and quality reps, presenting opportunity for greater looks in 12-personnel for the upcoming year.
Green Bay’s offense will call on Love for another notable leap in 2026 and is continuing to work to surround the star quarterback with additional help. LaFleur’s offense gets another valuable contributor as Week 1 approaches.
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