The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering their first season in the last 19 with the quarterback position up in the air. Future first ballot Hall of Famer Ben Roethlisberger retired in January, after 18 years of leading the Steelers.
Now, while Brian Flores adds his elite expertise to the defense, general manager Kevin Colbert and head coach Mike Tomlin have to figure out what to do when it comes to the game’s most important position.
While that’s of the utmost importance, having weaponry for your quarterback of choice to throw to is vital as well. That’s why bringing the talented wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster back is crucial.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly discussed the importance of the Steelers re-signing JuJu, who had over 1,400 receiving yards and made the Pro Bowl in 2018. Smith-Schuster was limited to five games due to a shoulder injury that required surgery.
If JuJu wants to be a No. 1 target, then stay in Pittsburgh.
“Would they be willing to do more than a one-year deal with Smith-Schuster?” Kboli said. “This is for sure: He wouldn’t be willing to come back on a one-year deal. Even though he was hurt the majority of the season, he showed that he’s quite important for this offense.”
Schuster just finished playing on a one-year, $8 million deal after the team declined to use the franchise tag on him. Now he’s in the same position entering free agency.
A huge reason for Schuster returning on a one-year deal last season was playing with Roethlisberger in the future Hall of Famer’s final season. So, keeping JuJu around this time will probably take more than a one-year deal. He’s been mentioned as a solid fit for the Kansas City Chiefs, among other teams.
Schuster Says He Wants To Return To The ‘Burgh’
Following the team’s (42-21) playoff loss to the Chiefs, Schuster talked about the chances of him being a Steeler next season.
“Honestly it would be a blessing (to stay in Pittsburgh),” JuJu said. “I love the city; I love the fans. I love Coach Mike Tomlin. I love the coaches, and my teammate, players everyone from the media side to the training room. It’s been unbelievable. My career here has been amazing. It would be nice to stay here and play with these guys and the same coaches. It would be nice to stay here for another four years.”
Schuster Makes Surprising Playoff Return
Smith-Schuster was lost for the season in Week 5. But returned for the playoff loss to the Chiefs, and he looked like his same explosive self. An elated Schuster tweeted this statement.
To read more about JuJu Smith-Schuster and his NFL future, click here.
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