JuJu Smith-Schuster’s release from the New England Patriots is one of the more surprising moves of the 2024 NFL offseason. Smith-Schuster, who was once seen as a rising star with the Pittsburgh Steelers and even helped the Kansas City Chiefs secure a Super Bowl, now finds himself looking for a new team after a disappointing stint in New England. With injuries limiting his impact and his role in the Patriots’ offense diminishing, the decision to part ways seemed inevitable.
However, Smith-Schuster’s career is far from over. Despite the setbacks, he remains a talented receiver who could provide significant value to a team in need of experience and reliability. As the NFL landscape shifts with injuries, retirements, and emerging talent, several teams could benefit from adding Smith-Schuster to their roster. Here, we explore the top three potential landing spots for the veteran wideout and what each destination could offer both Smith-Schuster and the team.
The Atlanta Falcons: A New Start in the NFC South
The Atlanta Falcons have been quietly building a competitive roster, but they are still lacking depth at the wide receiver position. With Rondale Moore out for the season, the Falcons’ receiving corps behind Drake London and Darnell Mooney looks thin. Smith-Schuster could slide into a third-receiver role, offering a reliable target for Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson’s system relies heavily on short to intermediate routes, areas where Smith-Schuster has thrived throughout his career. His ability to find soft spots in zone coverage and his willingness to block in the run game make him a perfect fit for Robinson’s scheme. Additionally, Cousins is a quarterback who can distribute the ball effectively, and Smith-Schuster’s experience could help stabilize an otherwise young receiving group.
For Smith-Schuster, Atlanta offers the chance to rejuvenate his career in a less pressurized environment than the one he faced in New England. The Falcons aren’t burdened by the expectations that come with being perennial contenders, but they are a team on the rise, and Smith-Schuster could play a key role in their ascent.
The Philadelphia Eagles: Adding Depth to a Contender
The Philadelphia Eagles have one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL, led by star wide receivers A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith. However, with the recent retirement of Devante Parker, the Eagles suddenly find themselves needing more depth at the wide receiver position. Enter JuJu Smith-Schuster.
Smith-Schuster could step into the slot role vacated by Parker, providing quarterback Jalen Hurts with another reliable target. While he may not be the explosive playmaker that Brown or Smith is, Smith-Schuster’s ability to operate in the middle of the field and move the chains would add a different dimension to the Eagles’ offense. His presence would allow Brown and Smith to continue stretching defenses vertically while Smith-Schuster handles the dirty work underneath.
For the Eagles, signing Smith-Schuster would be a low-risk, high-reward move. They are already among the favorites to make a deep playoff run, and adding a seasoned receiver like Smith-Schuster could only bolster their chances. For Smith-Schuster, joining a Super Bowl contender like the Eagles would give him a chance to prove he can still contribute at a high level, potentially leading to a longer-term contract or another opportunity to win a ring.
The Los Angeles Chargers: A New Weapon for Justin Herbert
The Los Angeles Chargers have undergone significant changes this offseason, parting ways with veteran receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. This has left a void in their receiving corps, with much of the burden now falling on rookie wideout Ladd McConkey. Adding JuJu Smith-Schuster to the mix could provide the Chargers with the balance they need on offense.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh is known for his love of smash-mouth football, and Smith-Schuster’s physical style of play fits perfectly within that philosophy. As a slot receiver, Smith-Schuster can work the short areas of the field, providing Justin Herbert with a reliable target on quick throws and crucial third downs. Moreover, Smith-Schuster’s blocking ability would be invaluable in the Chargers’ run-heavy attack, helping to pave the way for their rushing game.
For Smith-Schuster, joining the Chargers could be an ideal situation. Herbert is one of the league’s most talented young quarterbacks, and playing alongside him could help Smith-Schuster rediscover his best form. Additionally, Los Angeles is a market that thrives on star power, and a strong season with the Chargers could help Smith-Schuster rebuild his brand and secure his future in the NFL.
The Road Ahead
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s NFL journey has been marked by highs and lows, from his breakout season in Pittsburgh to his injury-plagued year in New England. However, his talent and work ethic are undeniable, and there is every reason to believe he can still be a productive player in the right situation.
Each of these three potential destinations offers something unique for Smith-Schuster. The Falcons provide a chance to be a key contributor on an up-and-coming team, the Eagles offer the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl, and the Chargers present the possibility of forming a dynamic partnership with one of the league’s brightest young stars.
No matter where he lands, Smith-Schuster will be looking to prove that he still has plenty to offer. Whether it’s in Atlanta, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, or another unexpected destination, the next chapter of JuJu Smith-Schuster’s career will be one to watch closely.
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