Steelers trade options at WR could come down to a reunion with former polarizing playmaker
The Pittsburgh Steelers trade talks have gone radio silent. With rookie WR Roman Wilson having a strong start to OTAs last week, perhaps they are no longer interested, especially in light of the asking price for one of their top trade candidates. That doesn't mean you can rule out a free-agent addition, or even a […]
The Pittsburgh Steelers trade talks have gone radio silent.
With rookie WR Roman Wilson having a strong start to OTAs last week, perhaps they are no longer interested, especially in light of the asking price for one of their top trade candidates.
That doesn't mean you can rule out a free-agent addition, or even a mid-level trade, however, with one name starting to pick up steam:
Juju back to the Burgh?
“I don’t really see a fit for JuJu here," said Patriots reporter Greg Bedard on his podcast, Patriots Press Pass. "I think Mayo talked about the competition in the room, and definitely sort of a Belichick acquisition. Veteran guy that you know, you’ve seen, he’s played games, stuff like that. This is just a different regime. JuJu Smith-Schuster, to me, is not a fit here anymore, and I would be surprised if he’s here all that much longer.”
Juju signed a three-year deal in New England last offseason after winning a Super Bowl with Kansas City during the 2022-2023 season. He recorded nearly 1000 receiving yards and 78 receptions while be targeting by Patrick Mahomes.
But things weren't as efficient in New England in 2023-2024, where between injury and a total meltdown on offense, JuJu only recorded 29 receptions for 260 yards and one score.
Wanting to learn more about his situation in New England, I reached out to one of the rising stars on the Patriots beat:
After a lackluster performance last season, JuJu Smith-Schuster quickly lost favor among the fans in New England. So because of that combined with the overwhelming number receivers on the roster lead some to believe that Smith-Schuster won't be on the roster once the season rolls around. However, Smith-Schuster still has two years remaining on his three-year, $33 million deal. So because of that, a trade is what's most likely. A reunion in Pittsburgh would certainly make sense. Recently, OTAs spoke with reporters regarding his status heading into the season and he says he's 100%. So a new start with Russell Wilson and the Steelers could be perfect for him. The Patriots could ultimately opt to cut him, but a trade would be so much better for both parties involved (especially New England though).
–Sophie Weller, A to Z Sports New England
Still only 27 years old, Juju has some wear and tear, but if he's as healthy as he says, there's no reason to believe he can't be a viable third option on a Steeler's offense that could use a veteran presence and insertion of proven production.
So if New England opts to outright release Juju, taking a one-year flyer on him is perfectly reasonable. But if the WR corps isn't developing the way Pittsburgh had hoped come camp, a trade that involves some late-round capital and sharing of salary from both sides may benefit all parties involved.
Recent NFL news suggests the Pittsburgh Steelers will be featured in an international game
The Steelers may be headed back to their homeland.
