The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a significant challenge in filling the void left by Diontae Johnson, who was traded to the Carolina Panthers earlier this offseason. Johnson’s departure has left a notable gap in the Steelers’ receiving corps, especially next to rising star George Pickens.
The addition of players like Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller, and Cordarelle Patterson by new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith hasn’t quite sealed the deal on an established WR2 who can alleviate the pressure on Pickens.
As the offseason progresses, options for high-caliber wideouts thin out, making a trade for stars like Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel seem more like wishful thinking than a feasible strategy. This scarcity has led to speculations around potential, more accessible targets, including a familiar face that might just be the perfect fit for Pittsburgh’s current dilemma.
The Case for JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Return
JuJu Smith-Schuster, once a Pro Bowl talent for the Steelers, might soon part ways with the New England Patriots, according to Mark Kaboly of The Athletic. Kaboly suggests that the Steelers could be open to reuniting with Smith-Schuster if he becomes available, given the current market constraints.
“They’d probably give him a call. I mean, at this point, you gotta look at anybody,” Kaboly mentioned during a recent segment on 97.3 The Fan, courtesy of Steelers Depot.
Despite the downturn in his career, particularly during his stint with the Patriots, Smith-Schuster’s potential return to Pittsburgh cannot be dismissed lightly. His track record under Mike Tomlin and his familiarity with the Steelers’ system are compelling reasons for considering this move.
At 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, Smith-Schuster possesses the physicality and route-running ability to create significant plays and provide a reliable target for the quarterback.
Overcoming the New England Patriots Blues
Smith-Schuster‘s recent performance with the Patriots under Bill O’Brien’s offense was less than stellar, catching only 29 passes for 260 yards and a single touchdown in 11 games. The mismatch in New England’s system and his skillset, along with the team’s new acquisitions, suggests that his days in New England might be numbered.
The Steelers, known for their savvy moves, could capitalize on this opportunity.
A reunion might provide Smith-Schuster with the stable environment needed to rediscover his form. Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme, which aims to maximize the potential of mid-tier wideouts, could also play a crucial role in integrating Smith-Schuster into a system that leverages his abilities across various play scenarios.
A Win-Win Scenario For Pittsburgh Steelers?
Bringing back Smith-Schuster could be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Steelers. It’s not just about filling a position but also about restoring confidence in a player who has shown he can thrive in the right circumstances.
With the preseason fast approaching, Pittsburgh’s decision on this potential reunion will be eagerly awaited by fans and analysts alike, as it could significantly impact their offensive strategy and performance in the upcoming season.
Source: Fansided
