The Chiefs signed wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster on Monday, bringing back a veteran who was part of their Super Bowl-winning team two years ago. This move comes just one day before NFL teams must finalize their 53-player rosters.
Smith-Schuster was back in his old No. 9 jersey for practice as Kansas City’s temperatures neared 100 degrees.
He was released by the Patriots earlier this month after one year of a three-year, $25 million contract. In 2022, Smith-Schuster played for the Chiefs, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns. His season ended with a Super Bowl win, where he caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 victory over the Eagles.
“(Linebacker) Nick Bolton was getting treatment today and heard that familiar voice. He looked up and said, ‘What’s up brother!’” Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said about Smith-Schuster. “I hear he’s a great player. He and Pat (Mahomes) have great chemistry. He’ll be a key addition for us.”
Last season, the Chiefs’ wide receiver group was not very productive, despite winning their second straight title by beating the 49ers.
They tried to improve by signing Marquise Brown in free agency and drafting Xavier Worthy in the first round. However, Brown’s status for the start of the season is uncertain after he dislocated his shoulder during preseason.
The Chiefs will start the regular season against the Ravens on September 5 in a rematch of the AFC championship game.
They still have Rashee Rice, who had a breakout year last season, but he is dealing with legal issues in Texas. Although it doesn’t seem like he will face an NFL suspension before the season, one could be imposed later.
