Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, a key player in the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory two years ago, is set to be released by the New England Patriots, as reported by a source familiar with the decision. The individual, who revealed this information on Friday on the condition of anonymity since the team has not made an official announcement, disclosed that Smith-Schuster’s departure was first reported by NFL Network.
Smith-Schuster had signed a $25 million, three-year contract with the Patriots last year, but his performance fell short, only managing to catch 29 passes for 260 yards and scoring a solitary touchdown during his time with the team. His playing time was notably limited, with just 11 snaps in New England’s recent preseason game against the Carolina Panthers.
Originally chosen as a second-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017, the 27-year-old wide receiver showcased his best season in 2018, tallying 111 receptions for 1,426 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. Following his successful stint with the Steelers, Smith-Schuster joined the Chiefs in 2022 after they traded away All-Pro Tyreek Hill, aiding the team by leading the wide receivers with 78 catches, 933 yards, and three touchdowns.
One of the memorable moments involving Smith-Schuster was during Super Bowl 57 when he was held by James Bradberry of the Eagles on a crucial third down. The resulting penalty granted the Chiefs a first down, allowing them to deplete more time before securing a crucial 27-yard field goal by Harrison Butker with just 8 seconds left on the clock.
To strengthen their receiving corps, the Patriots drafted Ja’Lynn Polk in the second round, while Demario Douglas, a sixth-round pick from 2023, emerged as the team’s leading receiver with 561 receiving yards from 49 catches. Despite Kendrick Bourne being New England’s top receiver, his playing time was limited to eight games last season due to injuries.
