5 reasons the Steelers will make playoffs without Antonio Brown

OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 09: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers watches his team during warm ups before the game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum on December 9, 2018 in Oakland, California. The Oakland Raiders defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 24-21. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images) /

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 23: JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts during the first half against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 23, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

1. JuJu Smith-Schuster can be a No. 1 wideout

Brown was the biggest name receiver on the Steelers roster last season, but Smith-Schuster was more productive. He’ll face more double coverage without Brown lining up on the opposite side of the formation, but he’s got the talent to emerge as an All-Pro wide receiver.

The fact that he’s only 22 years old makes him a significantly better bet to produce big time yardage over the next several years than Brown. That, coupled with his willingness to toe the party line, is a big reason why Smith-Schuster is still in Pittsburgh and Brown is in Buffalo.

The continued presence of Ben Roethlisberger under center should keep Smith-Schuster’s production at a high level in 2019. He’s going to become a marked man by opposing defenses, but he’s got a quarterback who can throw guys open all over the field. Look for Smith-Schuster to put up huge numbers without Brown taking up so many targets.

Next. Top 5 free agency targets for the Steelers. dark

There’s always a risk when you ask your No. 2 wide receiver to ascend to the No. 1 spot, but Smith-Schuster has the natural talent and work ethic to make the leap. Don’t be surprised if you see him, and not Brown in the Pro Bowl next season. More importantly, look for Smith-Schuster to be the only one of the pair in the playoffs in 2019.

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