The Pittsburgh Steelers enjoyed some strong offensive years when JuJu Smith-Schuster began his career. Drafted by Pittsburgh in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Smith-Schuster quickly made an impact. In his rookie season, he recorded seven touchdowns, 58 receptions, and 917 receiving yards. He followed up with an even more promising 2018 season, catching 111 passes for 1,426 receiving yards and scoring seven touchdowns.
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Former Steelers wide receiver's JuJu Smith-Schuster and Antonio Brown celebrate a score.
In 2021, Smith-Schuster played in just five regular season games before suffering a shoulder injury. After that season, he signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he became a solid contributor to their Super Bowl-winning team, tallying 78 receptions for 933 yards and three touchdowns.
After his Super Bowl victory with the Chiefs, Smith-Schuster signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the New England Patriots. However, after a disappointing 2023 season, Jordan Schultz reported on Friday that the Patriots released Smith-Schuster, who is still owed $7 million by the team.
JuJu Smith-Schuster spent 1 year with the #Patriots and is owed $7M from New England. https://t.co/VN0iCAHfgA pic.twitter.com/bXpAkLyDrP
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 9, 2024
The Steelers have been linked to various wide receivers this offseason, and there was even some speculation that if the Patriots released Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh might consider bringing him back on a bargain deal. Now that this scenario has become a reality, it's worth wondering if the Steelers will make a move to reunite with Smith-Schuster in the Steel City.
Although Smith-Schuster had a rough 2023 season, struggling with injuries, he had his best game against the Steelers in Pittsburgh, catching four passes for 90 yards in a Patriots upset victory. At 27 years old, Smith-Schuster is now a free agent, and his market value is expected to be low due to his struggles in New England. However, he may still have more to offer than his current market suggests, which could make him an option for Pittsburgh to consider.
Patriots Wire / USA Today
Steelers' former WR JuJu Smith-Schuster celebrates a play against his former team in Pittsburgh.
Smith-Schuster's production with the Chiefs was slightly above average. While he wasn't a touchdown machine, he was a reliable target and never shied away from getting involved in the blocking game. Though his social media presence once annoyed some fans, he was still a fan favorite in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers' wide receiver room has been a hot topic this offseason. Many fans are concerned about the depth at the position, especially after the trade of Diontae Johnson. While George Pickens is poised for a breakout 2024 season, questions remain about which receivers can step up behind him. Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson have shown promise in training camp, generating excitement among Steelers fans.
Steelers Could Bring Back JuJu Smith-Schuster For Cheap
Adding Smith-Schuster wouldn't drastically change the dynamic of the Steelers' wide receiver room. However, given his familiarity with the organization and the potential for a bargain deal, it might be worth considering what bringing him back to Pittsburgh could look like.
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Former Steelers WR JuJu Smith-Schuster during his time with the Chiefs.
While it's not a likely move, Steelers fans will be watching to see if the team has any interest in reconnecting with their former wide receiver.
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