The New England Patriots have kicked off another training camp, and as usual, the competition is fierce. This year, a significant focus is on the wide receiver corps, where one name stands out among the rest: JuJu Smith-Schuster.
A Proven Talent with Something to Prove
Smith-Schuster, a former Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler, comes to the Patriots with a notable resume that includes a 1,000-yard season. Having been signed to a three-year, $25.5 million deal last offseason, Smith-Schuster is seen as the most accomplished player among the Patriots' wide receivers currently at training camp.
Despite his credentials, Smith-Schuster knows he has to prove his worth. Reflecting on the competition, he remarked, "I think everyone out here in that room is fighting for a spot. Obviously, there's guys who have spots and I feel like for myself it's something that -- coming out here, I've got to prove [myself and] compete with these guys. These guys are very good. Very talented on the inside and outside."
Battle for Roster Spots
The Patriots' approach to building their roster is apparent, prioritizing performance and potential through both the draft and free agency. This season, the organization has brought in Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker via the draft and signed veteran K.J. Osborn. Additionally, DeMario Douglas is already considered a roster lock.
With these new additions, there are limited spots available for wide receivers on the opening 53-man roster. Smith-Schuster finds himself facing stiff competition from Jalen Reagor, Tyquan Thornton, and Kayshon Boutte. The battle for these coveted spots has brought out the best in everyone.
Smith-Schuster's 2022 Season
Last season was a challenging one for Smith-Schuster. He played in 11 games, recording 29 catches for 260 yards and a touchdown before an injury shut him down for the final month. This resulted in a significant dead cap hit of $12.26 million for the coming season, adding an extra layer of expectations for the player.
Yet, Smith-Schuster remains undeterred. "You have a lot of great guys in the room. A lot of people who have been making plays all camp. I would say that the competition level is very, very high. So everyone that's out there, when your opportunity comes, you've gotta make the best out of it," he stated, emphasizing the high stakes and the intense competition atmosphere at the camp.
High Stakes and Higher Expectations
For Smith-Schuster, the weight of proving himself goes beyond just securing a roster spot; it's also about validating the Patriots' investment in him. With his significant contract and history of performance, expectations are high.
The Patriots' coaching staff is closely monitoring how Smith-Schuster and his fellow wide receivers perform, especially under the pressure of training camp. Every catch, every route run, and every moment on the field is an opportunity to stand out.
Smith-Schuster brings a confident edge to the field, which he has honed over years of being in competitive environments. He shared, "It's always been in me, that dawg, that competitiveness. I've been in a lot of tough situations, making those hard catches and being able to convert and move the sticks. Something I'm very proud of. So for sure, got that dawg in me. For sure."
As training camp progresses, the performance of the wide receiver group will be a storyline to watch closely. For JuJu Smith-Schuster, it's another chapter in a career defined by talent, drive, and an unyielding will to compete.