Jerod Mayo Explains Patriots’ Decision to Release JuJu Smith-Schuster
The New England Patriots made waves this week by cutting veteran wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, just a year after he inked a three-year, $25 million deal.
Jerod Mayo, the team’s first-year head coach, offered insight into the unexpected move, which came early in training camp. Mayo explained that the decision was a strategic one, aimed at giving younger players a chance to prove themselves.
Patriots insider Mike Kadlick shared a video of Mayo addressing the media, where Mayo stated, “It was a decision between Eliot [Wolf] and myself to really give the younger guys an opportunity to show what they can do.”
Two rookies, Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, have reportedly been impressing at Patriots camp. This, combined with reports of Smith-Schuster dropping passes and his hefty contract compared to recent performance, led the team to focus on their younger talent.
Not too long ago, JuJu was one of the young players pushing for a spot in the league. But at 27, his career trajectory hasn’t matched the early promise he showed with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
While another team might take a chance on Smith-Schuster, the Patriots are clearly focused on developing their young talent, leaving him out of their rebuilding plans.
The spotlight now turns to the rookies as they get more opportunities, while Smith-Schuster looks for a fresh start elsewhere.
