Steelers officially activate star wide receiver for playoffs
It was Week 5 — star Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. To make matters worse, Smith-Schuster realized he would never catch a pass from Pittsburgh legend Ben Roethlisberger again.
In a shocking turn of events, everything’s changed. As Smith-Schuster watched as Pittsburgh made a miracle playoff run, all he wanted was a chance to return before Roethlisberger retired. The wide receiver is getting his chance.
“We have activated WR JuJu Smith-Schuster from the Reserve/Injured List and released P Corliss Waitman,” revealed the Steelers on Saturday.
The Steelers passing game has struggled with Smith-Schuster sidelined, but the former USC star gives them another weapon to think about. If Pittsburgh wants to pull the upset in Kansas City, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Steelers.
As the news broke, Smith-Schuster took to Twitter to share how grateful he is to take the field once again.
“God answered my prayers & I’ve recovered from my season-ending shoulder injury earlier than expected,” Smith-Schuster wrote on Twitter. “I can’t believe I get another chance to take the field with this team and play in a playoff game to keep our season alive. Steelers Nation, Here We Go!”
Prior to his injury, Smith-Schuster amassed 15 receptions for 129 yards. As the Steelers offense looks for a jolt, the star receiver will hope to provide a big boost for Pittsburgh against the vaunted Chiefs. If he can do it, perhaps one of the biggest upsets in recent memory could take place.
JuJu Smith-Schuster scratched and clawed his way back from a shoulder injury for the playoffs. Now, he has one last shot with Ben Roethlisberger to pull off a miracle.
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The Steelers are loose going into the playoffs. As Mike Tomlin attempts to keep the confidence up for Pittsburgh, the return of Smith-Schuster will help many to believe in the Steelers.
Earlier this week, Roethlisberger stated the Steelers are playing with house money. They may have snuck into the playoffs, but they’re going to give it their all while they’re here.
“As a group, you understand that we probably aren’t supposed to be here,” stated Roethlisberger. “We’re probably not a very good football team. Out of 14 teams I think are in, we’re probably number 14.
“… We don’t have a chance, so let’s just go in and have fun.”
The Steelers will be coming out swinging big against the Chiefs. Whether their strategy works remains to be seen, but it’s an admirable strategy nonetheless.