There has been a lot of debate among fans about whether the Steelers should let wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster walk in 2021 free agency or sign him to a long-term extension.
It’s never been a question of talent. We all know the caliber of player Smith-Schuster can be (169 receptions for 2,343 yards in two seasons). 2019 was a subpar season for the receiver (42 receptions for 552 yards), mainly due to the lack of quarterback talent and injuries. When he was in the game, he seemed uncomfortable playing on the outside — struggling with drops and gaining separation from defenders.
Typically, the Steelers have negotiated contracts the season before free agency. I’m not so sure that happens with Smith-Schuster. I believe the team will want to see if he can step up production to deem himself worthy of a hefty extension.
“It was a tough season to evaluate with the different quarterbacks and some of JuJu’s injuries so it’s a tough season to evaluate from a lot of different standpoints,” Art Rooney II said in January, via PennLive.com. “Obviously we still think highly of JuJu and still think he’s going to be an outstanding player in the league moving forward and we will address the contract situation when it’s appropriate.”
Should Smith-Schuster rebound in 2020, his salary demands could price him out of what the Steelers are willing and able to pay.
Here are the options Smith-Schuster will contend with in January.