JuJu Smith-Schuster may have played his last game as a Pittsburgh Steeler. The rising star enters his fifth season as a free agent. But he says he hopes to wear black and gold going forward.
In a tweet Monday, the wide receiver said he is a Steeler “through thick and thin,” adding that he “would love to be back (for) more.”
“JuJu Chapter 4 is in the books. It’s a blessing to be here, and as always, I have to thank God for allowing me to be in this position, I am so thankful.
Any time you end your season short of a championship, from Pop Warner up until the NFL, it always stings and this is no different. We deserved this L, and just were nowhere close to what we needed to be. The grind continues.
Pittsburgh, I am proud to represent and fight for this city every time I step on the grass. Every time I wear the black and gold, I know I’m not just wearing a team’s jersey, I am wearing a tradition, a city, a culture, a brand, and a global fan based on my back and I am so thankful for that privilege!
“I am a proud STEELER through thick and thin. I would love to be back from more, to be part of the group that brings this organization where it belongs. Thank you for the support and having my back.”
The Steelers started the season 11-0 but were knocked out in the first round of the AFC playoffs. The team lost to division rival Browns 48-37 on Sunday in Pittsburgh.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Had Productive Season, Despite Issues
The loss is particularly bad for JuJu Smith-Schuster as he had taunted Cleveland before the game. He said the Browns were “nameless gray faces” and that he wasn’t worried about playing them. The Browns seemingly used the slight as motivation.
Though he finished the game with 13 catches for more than 150 yards and a touchdown, it wasn’t enough.
He finishes the year with more than 800 yards receiving and nine touchdowns, according to Pro Football Reference. That’s the most scores he’s ever had in a season.
And despite some notable controversies, Smith-Schuster has raised his profile in the league. He will likely receive several offers from other teams.
One of the biggest stories this off-season will likely be if he and the Steelers can come to terms on a future together.
