NFL Rumors: 4 likely destinations for JuJu Smith-Schuster in 2021
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. AFC . North. Pittsburgh Steelers. 1. player. 55
If it isn’t broke, no reason to fix it.
Although Smith-Schuster has played the No.2 role to Claypool in 2020, he still is having a surging season offensively. Through the team’s nine-game winning streak, the go-to slot target has tallied 54 catches for 516 yards and five touchdowns. Consistency has been key as in his last four games, he’s tallied at least 67 receiving yards and six catches. Johnson’s injury concerns could be a lingering problem on the outside. Claypool has been a nice find, but the Notre Dame product also isn’t consistent. Despite leading all rookie receivers with nine touchdowns, six have come in two games. There’s also the need of having established talent for whoever the heir to Big Ben is, meaning the more weapons available the better.
Pittsburgh is going to have to pay TJ Watt before the start of a contract year. If Bud Dupree hits the open market, there will be room to pay Smith-Schuster a reasonable salary over the next three seasons. It’s a long shot, but don’t rule out the Steelers just yet in the race for No.19.