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In his four-year profession, JuJu has netted 308 receptions for 3,726 yards (64.2 rec YPG), 12.1 yards per catch, with 26 receiving TDs.
Among the best slot receivers within the NFL, Smith-Schuster generated the second-most receptions (76), probably the most receiving TDs (8), and fourth-most receiving yards (701) out of the slot amongst all gamers in 2020, through Subsequent Gen Stats — eight of Smith-Schuster’s 9 receiving TDs got here from the slot.
He’s Ben Roethlisberger’s most trusted wideout in essential spots. Smith-Schuster generated 32 receptions on third down in 2020 (second in NFL, behind solely Keenan Allen).
Apart from golf equipment having fewer {dollars} to throw round in 2021, groups probably weren’t keen to present JuJu an enormous deal. Most groups considered him as No. 2 WR, given his numbers dipped because the crew moved on from Antonio Brown as their No. 1 receiver. The Steelers offense as a complete, nonetheless, has struggled as Huge Ben has aged, which might assist clarify JuJu netting beneath 850 yards every of the previous two seasons.
The Steelers hope that regardless of losses elsewhere resulting from wage restraints, retaining Smith-Schuster retains Roethlisberger’s safety blanket over the center to make yet one more playoff push.
An enormous season in WR room in Pittsburgh might show Smith-Schuster is definitely worth the big-money that did not materialize this offseason.
Ultimately, the pull to stay in Pittsburgh for an additional season was sufficient for JuJu to stiff-arm a few million {dollars} extra and a recent begin.
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