Can Patriots TRADE Jonnu Smith For Cap Space?

TE Jonnu Smith has been a very disappointing signing for the Patriots, to say the least. After a breakout 2020 season with the Titans, New England inked him to a 4-year, $50 million deal, banking on his high upside. Since joining the Patriots, he has not had over 300 yards or more than 1 touchdown in a season, and the Pats may want to cut bait before the 2023 season.

Andrew Callahan of Pats Interference broke down the logistics of a hypothetical Jonnu Smith trade, and why the Pats should be eager to move on.

Smith's cap hit next season is $17.2 million, and if the Patriots traded him after June 1 (due to the NFL's accounting rules), they'd free up around $10 million. Even in an ideal scenario, there aren't many teams who would want Smith, but if the Patriots throw in enough draft compensation, a rebuilding team may take him as a salary dump.

"Maybe I'm just dreaming, but you got to get creative when you're 8-9," said Callahan.