JuJu Smith-Schuster had a quiet showing for the first five weeks of the season. Now, he has become a key target for Patrick Mahomes in this Chiefs offense.
After a slow start to the season, Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster has now turned into a viable weapon on offense for Patrick Mahomes and the team’s offense. With nearly an entirely new receiving corps, the Chiefs offense has now gotten into a rhythm. Once the Chiefs return from their bye in Week 8, fans can expect the offense to continue this level of play with Smith-Schuster being one of the key reasons.
Smith-Schuster struggled in the first five games. He caught 22 passes for just 257 yards and was unable to reach the end zone. But in the last two games, Smith-Schuster nearly equated his receiving yards from his first five games. Against the Bills and 49ers the last two weeks, Smith-Schuster collected 237 yards and scored a touchdown in both games.
As great as Mahomes is, it would be unrealistic to think that Smith-Schuster and the rest of the new receivers would make a major impact right away. After the offense had a hard time being in sync the first few games, Smith-Schuster now has a better grasp of the offense alongside Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Smith-Schuster has struggled the past three seasons, averaging just over 500 receiving yards during that timespan while missing most of 2021 due to a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 5.
The former Pittsburgh Steeler and 2018 Pro Bowler was signed shortly before Tyreek Hill was traded away. With All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce being the biggest weapon for Mahomes, Smith-Schuster has now become a reliable threat who Mahomes can throw to and rely on to make a big impact.
Smith-Schuster is currently playing on a one-year deal. If Smith-Schuster continues to play at this level as the season goes on, don’t be surprised if Chiefs general manager Brett Veach does everything possible to keep him in Kansas City long-term. That kind of connection between an elite quarterback and a great receiver is what the Chiefs need for the entire duration of Mahomes’ time here in Kansas City.