BREAKING: Another Patriots’ star departs the club
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s tenure with the New England Patriots has come to an unexpected end, as the team has released the wide receiver just one year after signing him to a $25.5 million contract. The decision marks a swift and surprising turn in Smith-Schuster’s career, which had promised to be a significant chapter for both the player and the franchise.
Smith-Schuster, who signed with the Patriots in March 2023, was anticipated to be a key addition to New England’s receiving corps. His arrival followed a successful stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl LVII victory. The Patriots’ investment in Smith-Schuster was based on his potential to provide a reliable target for quarterback Mac Jones and to bring a veteran presence to a young receiving group.
However, his performance in 2023 did not meet expectations. Over the course of the season, Smith-Schuster struggled with injuries and consistency, catching just 33 passes for 434 yards and only one touchdown. This underwhelming production, coupled with the Patriots’ ongoing challenges on offense, likely influenced the decision to part ways.
Releasing Smith-Schuster now allows the Patriots to free up salary cap space and possibly redirect resources to other areas of need. It also provides Smith-Schuster the opportunity to seek a new team where he might better fit or have a chance to rehabilitate his value.
The departure raises questions about Smith-Schuster’s future and the Patriots’ strategy moving forward. For Smith-Schuster, this marks another chapter in a career that has seen its share of highs and lows, and he will now be on the lookout for a new opportunity to reestablish himself as a dynamic and impactful receiver.
