In a shocking turn of events, wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster will stay with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal.
Earlier in the offseason, it was hinted by Smith-Schuster himself that he would not return to the Steelers. So, it had been widely expected that he would join other teams such as the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, or even the Kansas City Chiefs. However, Smith-Schuster surprised everyone by returning to the Steelers.
The wideout broke the news with a series of tweets expressing his love for Pittsburgh. “This is my home, they’re gonna need a wrecking ball to take me outta here!,” he wrote. The Pro Bowler would write more tweets expressing his excitement. “Came in here a young 20-year-old, and you guys embraced me from the moment I got here so much love.”
Smith-Schuster signed a one-year deal worth eight million. This contract was less than what other teams had offered him. The Ravens offered the receiver a nine million with four million in incentives. Like the Ravens’ offer, the Chiefs offered eight million with three million in incentives. However, Smith-Schuster clearly values his home more than money.
Retaining the Pro Bowler does not come without consequences for the Steelers. As a result, the team has less than four million in cap space. To free up more cap space, the team has granted permission for starting cornerback Steve Nelson to seek a trade. Doing so will free the team up to eight million in cap space. On a positive note, the team now has more time to negotiate a long-term deal with Smith-Schuster.
Smith-Schuster was drafted by the Steelers and grew into both a star and fan favorite. Last season, the receiver recorded 831 receiving yards, nine receiving touchdowns and 97 receptions.
