KC Chiefs: JuJu Smith-Schuster may not be so expensive after all

The Kansas City Chiefs have a handful of important and pivotal free agent decisions to make this offseason after coming off their second Super Bowl victory in the last four years. For the most part, the success of their offseason could be determined by what they decide to do with their own in-house free agents.

One of their biggest decisions comes with that of wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. When Smith-Schuster first signed his one-year deal with Kansas City in the offseason, it was designed to allow him to somewhat revive his career with the Chiefs—rack up numbers, hit incentives, and re-enter hit the market again a year later. At that point, he could cash in after proving he was still an impact receiver in this league.

In the end, Smith-Schuster recorded 78 catches for 933 yards and 3 TDs during the 2022 season. Not quite a great season for Smith-Schuster, but a pretty good one where you could also argue would’ve been a great one if not for some bad injury luck. He was the No. 1 wide receiver on a Super Bowl-winning team and ended up being critical in the second half of the game. All in all, that’s a strong resume to head into free agency with.

JuJu Smith-Schuster may not be so expensive for KC Chiefs after all

Most fans would like to hold onto Smith-Schuster but fear that Kansas City may not be able to retain him due to price. Although Smith-Schuster was good for the Chiefs this past season, the wide receiver market has exploded recently and there aren’t many big-name free agent wide receivers this year. Teams that are desperate for a receiver may be willing to pay around $20 million per year which seems far too rich for Smith-Schuster.

But according to Spotrac, Smith-Schuster’s projected market value at just over $14 million per year. Other services have had Smith-Schuster at around the same with maybe a little more or a little less. Ultimately, the Chiefs may be able to keep JSS at a fair price that keeps him around long-term.

If you’re essentially giving Smith-Schuster the Marques Valdez-Scantling deal from last year, that’s a great contract, especially in this market. If you’re not willing to spend at least a little bit then you can’t expect quality free agents. Plus, keeping Smith-Schuster doesn’t preclude you from drafting another receiver either.

Keeping Smith-Schuster isn’t a must but it would be nice. Another year in this offense and another training camp and offseason of building chemistry with Patrick Mahomes could mean a more productive year next season. Keep in mind that Smith-Schuster is still just 26 years old. Keeping a young, productive receiver around that still may have some upside would be ideal.