The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back former Pro Bowl wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster on a one-year deal, as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. This reunion comes after a challenging stint for Smith-Schuster with the New England Patriots, where injuries and a struggling offense hampered his performance last season.
Smith-Schuster played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl-winning campaign two seasons ago, contributing 78 receptions for 933 yards and three touchdowns. His chemistry with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his understanding of head coach Andy Reid’s offensive system were integral to Kansas City’s success.
However, after signing with the Patriots in the offseason, Smith-Schuster’s production dropped significantly. In just 11 games, he managed only 29 catches for 260 yards and one touchdown before being released by New England earlier this month.
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Now, the 27-year-old wide receiver returns to Kansas City with a point to prove. The one-year contract offers Smith-Schuster a chance to demonstrate that he’s fully recovered from his knee issues and still capable of being a productive force in the NFL.
His familiarity with the Chiefs’ playbook and his established rapport with Mahomes should help him quickly reintegrate into the team’s high-powered offense, provided he stays healthy.
Smith-Schuster’s return bolsters the Chiefs’ receiving corps as they prepare to defend their Super Bowl title. The team’s season opener is set for Thursday, Sept. 5, against the Baltimore Ravens, with kickoff scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Smith-Schuster can recapture the form that made him a key contributor during Kansas City’s championship run.