The Kansas City Chiefs are making moves to strengthen their roster, starting with the re-signing of wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.
The 28-year-old is now set for a third season with the Chiefs, continuing to provide a speedy and reliable target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Journey with the Chiefs
Smith-Schuster joined the Chiefs in 2022 and played a key role in the team’s journey to the Super Bowl that season.
Despite a tough loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the championship game, Smith-Schuster proved to be a valuable part of the Chiefs’ offensive scheme.
His return to Kansas City for a third season gives the Chiefs much-needed consistency at the wide receiver position.
Details of Smith-Schuster’s New Contract
While the exact terms of Smith-Schuster’s new contract haven’t been disclosed, it’s widely believed that it’s a one-year deal.
This could be a key year for the wide receiver, especially with DeAndre Hopkins moving to the Baltimore Ravens.
With the Chiefs needing to fill that gap, Smith-Schuster could see more opportunities alongside up-and-coming players like Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy.
Smith-Schuster’s Performance in 2024
Last season, Smith-Schuster’s stats didn’t jump off the page.
He caught 18 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns, numbers that are far from impressive compared to other top receivers.
This could partly be due to the fact that he rejoined the Chiefs just days before the season started, leaving him little time to gel with the rest of the team’s wide receivers.
From the Steelers to the Patriots and Back to Kansas City
Before his time with the Chiefs, Smith-Schuster spent five seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, with his standout season coming in 2018 when he made the Pro Bowl.
After leaving Pittsburgh, he spent one year with the New England Patriots, where he had a front-row seat to watch Bill Belichick’s final year in the NFL.
Now, back with the Chiefs, Smith-Schuster is looking to recapture the form that made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh.
Travis Kelce’s Return Highlights Chiefs’ Offseason
In other news for the Chiefs, tight end Travis Kelce, Mahomes’ favorite target, also confirmed he would be returning for at least one more season.
After months of speculation, Kelce made the announcement through Pat McAfee’s show.
Kelce’s return is a big boost to the Chiefs’ offense, especially with his strong connection to Mahomes.
Kelce has also made headlines off the field due to his relationship with pop star Taylor Swift, which started in September 2023.
With key pieces like Smith-Schuster and Kelce returning, the Chiefs are positioning themselves for another strong season as they aim to compete for a Super Bowl once again.