How JuJu Smith-Schuster Elevates Patriots: 'Dangerous'
Out of all the additions the New England Patriots made to their roster this offseason, whether it be via the NFL Draft or free agency, who is the most "dangerous" player?
That is the question a recent article by Bleacher Report answered for all 32 teams, in which they named wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster as the Patriots' most dangerous addition.
"Smith-Schuster can also play on the perimeter or in the slot, which will provide some options for new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien and the Patriots passing attack," Bleacher Report writes. "While adding Smith-Schuster alone might not return quarterback Mac Jones to the Pro Bowl form he showed as a rookie in 2021, it will provide some potency to the Patriots' passing game."
When comparing Smith-Schuster to the departed Jakobi Meyers, Bleacher Report went as far as to say that the Patriots have a more dynamic weapon. Why is this? Well, as mentioned above, it is his ability to play inside and out for the Patriots' offense. Pair Schuster's versatility with the creativity of veteran offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien, and New England may have the closest thing to a No. 1 receiver than they've had in a few years.
Yet, what truly separates Schuster from the rest of the Patriots' receiving corps, is his ability to create after the catch. For example, the former USC product averaged 5.8 yards after the catch per reception this past season, accruing 465 after catching the football. In comparison to the Patriots last season, the only player with more yards after the catch was running back Rhamondre Stevenson with 474. The next closest Patriots was Meyers, who ranked second on the team with 238 yards.
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