Throughout the majority of the 2020 NFL season, it appeared that the New York Jets would end up getting the No. 1 overall pick and the chance to select Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Unfortunately, they have won two straight games and will not have that chance. However, they will have a shot to add an impact player in free agency and JuJu Smith-Schuster could be their top target.
Over the last couple of years, the Jets have been desperately in need of a legitimate No. 1 wideout. In that same period of time, Smith-Schuster has been trying to prove that he can be that kind of player.
Back during his first two season in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Smith-Schuster looked like a growing superstar. He was a force to be reckoned with alongside Antonio Brown. Since Brown left, however, he has struggled a bit.
So far this season, Smith-Schuster has racked up 91 receptions for 766 yards and eight touchdowns. Those aren’t bad numbers at all, but the hype around Smith-Schuster has been much bigger than that.
Despite him not living up to all of the hype, Smith-Schuster will be a coveted free agent this offseason. For the Jets, he is a must-pursue free agent. If they can bring him in, he would instantly be a massive upgrade for Sam Darnold or whoever the Jets end up starting at quarterback.
Pro Football Focus took a look at Smith-Schuster’s upcoming free agency and they have made a projection. They believe that he will end up signing a four-year, $68 million contract with the Jets.
Losing out on a talent like Lawrence is a tough blow. He would have been an instant upgrade over Darnold, but the Jets will have to make do. Darnold may end up being their guy for the next few years.
JuJu Smith-Schuster may not be an even consolation prize, but he would be exactly the kind of offensive weapon that the Jets need. He would immediately become their top wide receiver and would make New York’s offense much more dangerous.
Plenty of other teams will have interest in signing Smith-Schuster this offseason. Among them could be the Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers, and many more. While the Jets may not be a Super Bowl contender, they are a big city with big money to spend.
It will be interesting to see where Smith-Schuster ends up signing. The Jets may not be the best team he could end up with, but they are a legitimate contender to sign him.
