In a bizarre twist of fate, wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster will be returning to the Kansas City Chiefs after he was just released by the New England Patriots. There is a lot of excitement in the NFL circles about this move as the Chiefs seek to strengthen their receiving unit before the new season starts. He made this decision after staying for a short while with the Patriots during which he was supposed to fill an important role but ended up quitting.
Why Did New England Release JuJu Smith-Schuster?
The release of JuJu Smith-Schuster by New England Patriots shocked many supporters and commentators alike. A three-year contract worth $25.5 million was signed in the offseason to bring veteran leadership and steady production to a young Patriot receiving group. Unfortunately, things did not work out as planned though.
Injuries and Inconsistent Performance
One of the reasons why Patriots decided to release him was Smith-Schuster’s struggle with injuries. His nagging knee problems meant his taking part in practices and games was restricted, which raised concerns about his long-term health among the team members. Furthermore, even if he did play, his performance varied greatly from game to game, failing to meet the high bar set by his prior campaigns with Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs.
Emergence of Other Receivers
Another reason that led to Smith-Schuster’s dismissal is the emergence of other receivers on the New England Patriots’ roster. Young stars such as Kendrick Bourne and Devante Parker came alive during training camp and preseason showcasing why they deserved a spot on their teams offensive plans. The Patriots are known for making such strategic moves when it comes to their lineup; thus, they decided against keeping Smith-Schuster while preferring younger players who seem better placed for success in future.
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Impact on the Chiefs
Smith-Schuster going back to Kansas City Chiefs is seen as an attempt to further strengthen an already highly skilled offense led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs who are always Super Bowl contenders consider him as an invaluable asset that will bring experience, dependability as well as deep knowledge about what goes into their offensive system.
Kwesi’s familiarity with the system
When Smith-Schuster rejoins the Chiefs and play for them again, it will be one of the major pros he will enjoy. In his previous time at Kansas City, Smith-Schuster played a vital role in its offensive unit; therefore, he knows Andy Reid’s playbook pretty well and has already established great chemistry with Patrick Mahomes. This is an easy transition that will see Smith-Schuster immediately making contributions on the field rather than spending much time learning ropes of joining a new team.
Making the receiving corps stronger
Chiefs’ receiving corps has seen changes in recent years with players like Tyreek Hill leaving. The return of Smith-Schuster augments the group by adding depth and flexibility to other receivers like Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Kadarius Toney among others. His ability to successfully play from the slot as well as tough catches traffic cannot be overemphasized for Kansas City particularly during times when there is high stake in games.
What This Means for Chiefs Offense
Smith-Schuster's inclusion in the Chiefs’ roster is expected to make them even more dynamic offensively. Here’s how his return could impact the team's performance:
Better Red Zone Execution
One place Smith-Schuster specializes in is within the red zone. He has great physicality and reliable hands, making him a safe option for Mahomes in tight spaces. Often with Travis Kelce drawing double coverage, Smith-Schuster might be just the other half of this equation who will create more scoring opportunities for the Chiefs.
Enhanced Conversion Rate on Third Down
The Chiefs have occasionally had problems converting third downs and Smith-Schuster’s ability to haul down essential catches could be a game-changing factor. His presence on third-down gives Mahomes an outlet he can trust, which in turn could lead to increased conversion rates and sustained drives for his side.
Vet Presence
While there are experienced veterans like Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes leading the team, there is also added leadership through Smith-Schuster. This experience would prove useful to younger players on the list as they progress through important matches such as Super Bowl appearances by JuJu.
Veteran Leadership
What will happen to the Patriots next?
The absence of Smith-Schuster from the roster implies that the Patriots must hurry up with their adjustment. Here’s what they might do:
Reliance on Young Blood
This indicates that New England may rely on young players who are already part of their squad to take over. Players such as DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne, etc., have shown a certain degree of promise already and will need to step up even more in order to make up for Smith-Schuster’s departure.
Looking into Free Agency or Trades
In addition, it is possible for them to go for free agents or engage in trade talks so as to obtain another experienced receiver. We could see Belichick make a move before season starts given his calculated approach towards team building.
JuJu Smith-Schuster captioning back at Kansas City Chiefs has been regarded as one of the most significant steps during NFL’s off-season. Having this player beside Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce among others would certainly add depth, experience and play making ability thus further threatening any opponents facing this powerhouse offense by Gregg Rosenthal. After he left, some questions came up about the situation with receiving corps’ depth and the direction of offensive strategy had been chosen for this team by Bill Belichick among other things. With both teams adapting to these changes there is no doubt that we are headed towards an exciting season in 2021.
FAQs
Why did JuJu Smith-Schuster get cut by the Patriots?
Due to his injury history and his subpar performance in numerous occasions, New England had to drop JuJu Smith Schuster. Their choice was also influenced by other upcoming WR players.
What impact will JuJu Smith-Schuster have on Chiefs offense?
His return is expected to improve the team’s red zone efficiency, increase third-down conversions and add a veteran presence.
Who will replace JuJu Smith-Schuster on Patriots?
Patriots are likely going to rely on young talents like DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne to step up with the absence of Smith Schuster while exploring free agency or trade options in this direction.
What are some of JuJu Smith-Shusters strengths as a receiver?
Physicality, strong hands and ability to make tough catches over the middle of the field define him as a receiver. His red zone value is high along with being reliable when it matters most.
Can the Patriots make a trade for someone else to take up from where Smith-Schuster left off?
Yes, there is that possibility since smith -Schusters departure can be replaced through either trade process or free agent acquisition for another experienced wide out by New England Patriots..
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