Key Takeaways:
– JuJu Smith-Schuster acknowledges ongoing battle with a knee injury.
– Speculation emerges on Smith-Schuster’s future with the Patriots due to wide receiver acquisitions.
– Smith-Schuster’s deal with the Patriots came under scrutiny due to his controversial injury.
Smith-Schuster Acknowledges Setback Due to Knee Injury
JuJu Smith-Schuster, wide receiver for the New England Patriots, has recently divulged that he played through persistent knee pain last season. The 2023 season was notably challenging for Smith-Schuster, who only played 11 games and managed merely 29 catches and 260 yards. In contrast, he had made 78 catches for 933 yards during his previous season with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Before the season, SI.com insider Albert Breer forewarned about Smith-Schuster’s knee problem on an NBC Sports Boston program. However, Smith-Schuster, visibly defensive, dismissed Breer’s claim. On Monday, however, the Patriots’ receiver admitted his knee was in a compromised state during the 2023 season. These admissions reveal that Breer’s initial comments about Schuster’s knee problems were not unfounded.
Smith-Schuster’s Reputation Takes a Hit
Despite returning to the field after sustaining a significant knee injury that required cleanup surgery, Smith-Schuster’s obstinate denial of his injury troubles led to questions about his integrity. However, it wasn’t negligence on the Patriots’ part to offer him a three-year, $25 million contract as they were fully aware of his injury. Letting go of Jakobi Meyers, the former season’s top target, and signing Smith-Schuster is now seen as a misguided decision in hindsight. The ensuing drama led many sportswriters, including ones at Sporting News and Steeler Nation to label Schuster as a ‘bust.’
Patriots Cast Doubt on Smith-Schuster Staying On
Regardless of Smith-Schuster now labeling himself as healthy and eager to play, it’s clear that the Patriots clearly have reservations. Multiple sources speculate that Smith-Schuster could be axed when the team culls its 53-man roster. Moves such as the re-signing of Kendrick Bourne in free agency and new acquisitions, K.J. Osborn, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker sends a clear message to existing receivers like Smith-Schuster and Tyquan Thornton that their roster spots are in jeopardy.
Uncertain Future for Patriots’ Receiver
Smith-Schuster’s future with the Patriots looks more uncertain than ever. Despite a three-year contract, poor performance and ongoing injury saga render his spot on the roster doubtful. Regardless, Smith-Schuster is making a battle-hardened return, voicing excitement about being back on the field.
Yet, his fate hangs in the balance, hinging on Patriots’ management’s patient navigation through his injury recoveries and fluctuating performances, or the team letting go of him, making room for fresher and potentially more reliable talent.