Chiefs to Sign Former Pro Bowl WR JuJu Smith-Schuster to One-Year Deal

Feb 12, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, US; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrates with wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) after making a catch for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter of Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are reuniting with former Pro Bowl wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster on a one-year deal, according to a report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

Smith-Schuster returns to the Chiefs where he was a key part of Kansas City’s Super Bowl run two seasons ago, when he recorded 78 receptions for 933 yards and three touchdowns. Smith-Schuster signed with the New England Patriots last offseason, where injuries and an ineffective offense marred his production. In 11 games last season, Smith-Schuster tallied just 29 catches for 260 yards and one touchdown. He was released by the Patriots earlier this month.

Smith-Schuster’s return to Kansas City gives the 27-year-old veteran a chance to prove that his knee is healthy and he still has plenty left in the tank. His familiarity with Andy Reid’s offensive system, and his previously established rapport with quarterback Patrick Mahomes should help ease that process if he’s healthy.

The Chiefs kickoff the season on Thursday, Sept. 5 against the Baltimore Ravens. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET.

Published Aug 26, 2024

MIKE MCDANIEL

Mike McDaniel is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where he has worked since January 2022. His work has been featured at InsideTheACC.com, SB Nation, FanSided and more. McDaniel hosts the Hokie Hangover Podcast, covering Virginia Tech athletics, as well as Basketball Conference: The ACC Football Podcast. Outside of work, he is a husband and father, and an avid golfer.