JuJu Smith-Schuster Gives Concerning Health Update After Chiefs Signing

WR JuJu Smith-Schuster is back with the Chiefs after a surprising reunion announcement, though concerns about his health will persist throughout the regular season.

Unfortunately, the 2022 Super Bowl champion added to those concerns when speaking with Kansas City media for the first time since returning. Smith-Schuster is battling persistent knee injuries and couldn't confirm he'd be available for Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Patriots ultimately released Smith-Schuster in part due to his health, so it'll continue to be a storyline to watch early in the year.

Chiefs WR JuJu Smith-Schuster Unsure About Week 1 Availability

To Smith-Schuster's credit, it'd be hard to be ready to play so quickly after joining a new team. He's familiar with the offense though, and the hope is that his injuries aren't a persistent problem.

He had 933 receiving yards and three TDs during his only season with the Chiefs, leading all receivers on the team in yards during that stretch. A physical target, Smith-Schuster offers a nice complement to Kansas City's speedsters at the position.

It's unlikely the Chiefs signed him intending to heavily use him in the first few weeks. The coaching staff has no reason to rush Smith-Schuster into the fold if he's not ready, and he doesn't have the benefit physically of having just endured Andy Reid's famously demanding training camp.

If Smith-Schuster can't play for an extended period of time, then his signing becomes a bit of a waste. He has a role to fill on this offense though obviously can't accomplish that goal if he's not on the field.

Here's hoping JuJu's health doesn't betray him en route to a Kansas City three-peat.

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