By Jordan Long
The Pittsburgh Steelers season came to a close in blowout fashion. They lost to the Kansas City Chiefs 42-21 on Sunday in the Wild Card round. Once the 4th quarter clock hit zero, it could have been quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers Ben Roethlisberger’s final game in the NFL. No word on if he will retire. Another member of the Steelers may have played his last game for the franchise, receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster who is a free agent this offseason.
Smith-Schuster was a free agent last year. He had offers to play for other teams but turned them down. He ultimately agreed to a 1- year, $8 million contract to stay in Pittsburgh. Smith-Schuster didn’t have a productive season for the Steelers, appearing in a career low 5 games. In those games, he caught 15 passes for 129 yards. Smith-Schuster missed most of the season after he had surgery for a shoulder injury suffered in the Steelers week 5 win over the Denver Broncos.
Smith-Schuster thought his year was over. Pittsburgh earned a playoff spot as a Wild Card team Smith-Schuster even played, suiting up for the first time since week 5. He didn’t look like he should have played, catching 3 passes for 9 yards. Once the game was over, Smith-Schuster knew his contract was up, meaning he is going to hit free agency which is the next order of business for him.
According to NFL.com, Smith-Schuster wrote on his Twitter account, “I’ve said it before and have the same stance: I’d love to be Pittsburgh for life. I hope we can make this happen this offseason and I want to be part of this franchise’s return to glory. It’s not a matter of if, but when, and I hope I’m wearing the black and gold, celebrating a Super Bowl with these fans, when it happens.”
Smith-Schuster finished his 5th year in the NFL, all with Pittsburgh. He has been productive in the offense with 323 receptions for 3,855 yards and 26 touchdowns. The Steelers will need to decide what to do with Smith-Schuster. When he is healthy, Smith-Schuster is a top wide receiver for this team.
The Steelers could offer him the same type of contract as last year. The only reason they would shy away from him is because of his shoulder injury and might pay him less. Smith-Schuster could refuse and see what his value is in free agency. Then again he loves playing for Pittsburgh so there is the possibility he will take a hometown discount. The Steelers will do what they feel is best for them and Smith-Schuster may not be in their plans for 2022. If that is the case Smith-Schuster will be in another jersey next season.
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