The Kansas City Chiefs have already brought back wide receiver Mecole Hardman. Could they re-acquire fellow wide out JuJu Smith-Schuster, as well?
The Chiefs lost both Hardman and Smith-Schuster to free agency back in the spring, but as the 2023 season progressed, it became clear that Kansas City needed some help at receiver.
As a result, the Chiefs swung a deal with the New York Jets to bring Hardman back into the fold ahead of Week 7, and Hardman ended up making a key first-down catch in addition to having an electrifying punt return.
But even with Hardman, Kansas City still needs more weapons in its aerial attack.
Jacob Camenker of The Sporting News suggests that the Chiefs talk to the New England Patriots about Smith-Schuster, who was one of Patrick Mahomes’ favorite targets during Kansas City’s Super Bowl run last year.
Smith-Schuster has fallen out of favor with Bill Belichick’s Patriots, as he has logged just 14 catches for 86 yards through New England’s first seven games.
However, we know that Smith-Schuster is capable of much more than that. He is just one season removed from hauling in 78 receptions for 933 yards and three touchdowns with the Chiefs, so it seems obvious that Kansas City simply knows how to utilize him better than the Pats.
Another positive for the Chiefs is that Smith-Schuster probably wouldn’t cost them too much in a trade. The Patriots would probably let him go for a mid-round draft pick at this point, or maybe a third-rounder. For a Kansas City club that is aiming to win another championship, that would be a small price to pay.
The Chiefs’ No. 1 receiver thus far this season has been Rashee Rice, who has totaled 26 catches for 305 yards and three scores. Those are fine numbers, but Rice is certainly not a top guy, and Kansas City has very limited depth behind him.
Mahomes could use another favorite target outside of Travis Kelce, and JuJu Smith-Schuster could be the guy to fill that role (again).
Want the latest NFL analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click here. Interested in reading storylines and analysis about the NBA? Check out our partner NBA Analysis Network.
