Patriots Release JuJu Smith-Schuster After Tough Season

The New England Patriots have officially decided to part ways with wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster after just one season with the team.

According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Patriots announced the release of the 27-year-old player following Thursday’s preseason game. Smith-Schuster’s time in New England was not what many had hoped for.

When he signed a three-year, $25.5 million deal back in March 2023, there were high expectations that he would enhance the Patriots’ receiving lineup. Unfortunately, he struggled with injuries, including issues with his knee and ankle, which sidelined him for a significant part of the season.

Smith-Schuster played in 11 games, starting seven of them, and managed to catch 29 passes for a total of 260 yards and only one touchdown. That touchdown came during a tough game against the Dolphins.

During his brief stint with the team, he became a lesser part of the offense, and quarterbacks only targeted him 47 times throughout the season. In New England’s latest preseason opener, he played only 11 snaps and did not make any catches.

Despite claiming to feel healthy again during training camp, Smith-Schuster found himself in a tough spot on the roster. The Patriots brought in a solid mix of new talent, including rookies Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, alongside veterans like Kendrick Bourne and free-agent signing K.J. Osborn.

By releasing Smith-Schuster now, he will have a better chance to join another team before the regular season kicks off. However, the Patriots will incur a $9.6 million dead cap hit for this year, plus an additional $2.6 million in 2025.