Why JuJu Smith-Schuster’s role is likely different for the Chiefs this time around
The Chiefs’ 2022 offense was among the best of the Patrick Mahomes era, leading the NFL in scoring and yards and putting up a big number in the Super Bowl victory over Philadelphia Eagles.
When an opportunity came to reconnect with the leading wide receiver for that team, the Chiefs welcomed back JuJu Smith-Schuster.
“Coming here wasn’t a tough decision,” said Smith-Schuster, who was released by the New England Patriots after the first preseason game.
He joins the Chiefs under different circumstances than his previous arrival.
Smith-Schuster spent his first five NFL years with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a Pro Bowl season, when he signed a one-year with the Chiefs. That happened three days before the team traded Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins. Also gone from the Chiefs’ roster that offseason were Demarcus Robinson and Byron Pringle.
Suddenly, Smith-Schuster found himself in a leading role as a newcomer, and he delivered with 78 catches for 933 yards and three touchdowns. In the 38-35 victory over the Eagles in Super Bowl LVII, Smith-Schuster caught seven passes for 53 yards and played a prominent role in a big moment.
With less than two minutes left, Smith-Schuster was the target of a Mahomes pass that resulted in a defensive holding penalty. The Chiefs ran down the clock and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal with eight seconds remaining.
This time, Smith-Schuster finds himself in a wide receiver room bolstered by first-round draft pick Xavier Worthy, free agent Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and second-year pro Rashee Rice, along with such former teammates as Justin Watson, Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman.
His signing likely pushed Justyn Ross or Kadarius Toney from the roster. Both were cut on Tuesday.
This time, Smith-Schuster won’t be expected to be the top target among the Chiefs’ wide receivers.
“We have so many weapons,” Smith-Schuster said. “We only have one ball. However (Andy Reid) wants to use me, I’m ready. ... It’s not about the numbers. It’s where I can be used.”
Smith-Schuster said he considered remaining with the Chiefs after the 2022 season. Instead he cashed in on his success and signed a three-year, $25.5 million deal with New England.
But the season proved disappointing. Smith-Schuster missed six games due to injury and finished with 29 receptions for 260 yards and a touchdown. The Patriots decided to cut ties and absorb a $9.63 million dead money hit.
Smith-Schuster said he fielded calls from other teams, but reuniting in Kansas City on a one-year deal made the most sense.
“Being very familiar with the offense, Andy Reid, Pat, all the guys, and just being in this facility makes your job easier,” Smith-Schuster said. “This is such a great offense. I’m happy to be a part of it.”
Again.