NFL Rumors: 4 likely destinations for JuJu Smith-Schuster in 2021
JuJu Smith-Schuster has some options after the 2020 season, but where will he suit up next year?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been known for their ability to find a diamond in the rough wide receivers. It may not seem like it now, but JuJu Smith-Schuster at one point was just a mid-round prospect out of USC.
During his four seasons in the Steel City, Smith-Schuster has established himself as one of the game’s premier No.2 targets. That’s been the problem since last season many expected him to take over the top duties for Antonio Brown. Then again, can you blame anyone in Pittsburgh’s offense that struggled without Ben Roethlisberger under center?
The Steelers will be in a bind looking to pay several stars come the 2021 offseason. Throw in the emergence of Diontae Johnson and rookie Chase Claypool, Smith-Schuster might be on the back burner of names looking to be extended by Mike Tomlin’s roster. If that’s the case, there’s a chance the 23-year-old could be the top name on the market at his position, thus earning a hefty payday.
Where could JuJu Smith-Schuster play in 2021?
4. player. Pick Analysis. East. New York Jets. 30. Scouting Report. AFC
If this was an Adam Gase-led Jets team, no way in Heinz would this happen. Instead, the biggest known secret of Gase being let go after the season will have a whole new personnel in the mix for free agents to join. Throw in working with perhaps the greatest quarterback prospect since Peyton Manning and this could sell Smith-Schuster on the idea of playing in the Big Apple.
Jameson Crowder has been the one constant for gang green’s passing attack in 2020. Currently, he leads the team with 31 catches for 409 yards and three touchdowns. Denzel Mims, the team’s second-round pick, has dealt with injuries all season but could transform in due time as a quality vertical threat. However, the middle of the field is where there are concerns and a perfect place where Smith-Schuster thrives.
The Jets have the second-most in the salary cap to spend at over $83 million. More than likely, they would be willing to overpay for an option like Smith-Schuster to be the next go-to weapon for Trevor Lawrence early on in his career. Even if the team isn’t ready to give up on Sam Darnold, they need to immensely upgrade at the receiver spot, so this just makes sense both financially and production-wise.