Patriots Tight End Jonnu Smith Led NFL In This Stat

Jonnu Smith didn’t have the most impressive NFL stat sheet this season, but he definitely leads the league in one particular category. Head coach Bill Belichick decided to get the talented tight end for a reason. Yes, his numbers weren’t as high as in 2021, but Smith was a good fit for Belichick’s system.

Smith saw action in 16 games with the Patriots. He joined the team in training camp and made all the necessary adjustments. Smith finished the 2021 NFL season with 28 catches for 294 yards and a touchdown. This is much lower than the stats he had in 2020, but hey, it’s all good, right?

Jonnu Smith led all Tight Ends in yards gained after the catch per reception this season (8.5) pic.twitter.com/p8u7zLrieh

— PFF NE Patriots (@PFF_Patriots) January 21, 2022

Jonnu Smith found a way to lead in one NFL stat despite his struggles

Truth is, Belichick got two tight ends and Henry Hunter got the bigger role. Smith saw less action than his fellow tight end, but Pro Football Focus says he leads all tight ends in yards gained after catch per reception.

Some NFL experts say that Smith’s performance was a bit disappointing this season. The Patriots signed him to a four-year deal worth $50 million. Analysts wanted Smith to step up as an offensive threat but it didn’t happen. He left some plays out there on the field, but there are people who say offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels made a few bad moves regarding Smith’s role with the team. McDaniels himself said he needs to create more plays that boost Smith’s skills. The Patriots offensive coach once said that Smith is a very talented player who works really hard to accomplish great things on the field.

Smith has the right speed and size to give McDaniels’ offense the much needed boost.

In 2021, the Patriots used Smith as a blocker, and maybe they should try to get more of his pass catching ability. Henry was able to develop better chemistry with rookie quarterback Mac Jones. Kendrick Bourne has good chemistry with Belichick’s first rounder, too. What about Smith? There’s still time for him to elevate his performance and see more action with the team.