JuJu Smith-Schuster showed his loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers by deciding to spend another season with them. The former second-round pick from the NFL 2017 Draft could have moved to a new destiny, but decided to remain with the organization he loves.
That's right, he proved how much he enjoys being part of Pittsburgh by putting pen to paper for a one-year contract with a significant reduction of his previous salary. And not only that, but it is reported that JuJu also had the opportunity of signing for another franchise for much more money.
The 24-year-old WR has agreed to continue with the Steelers for the 2021 campaign in an $8 million deal, according to NFL insiders Taylor Bisciotti and Ian Rapoport. He accepted a huge pay cut to stay at home, helping the team with the cap salary.
The teams that offered JuJu better contracts
Many players may express the affection they have for a franchise, but actions speak louder than words. Smith-Schuster gave strong proof of his commitment to the Steelers by accepting a less lucrative wage, even when other competitors came close with attractive numbers.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Baltimore Ravens were highly interested in bringing JuJu in and put a better offer over the table for him. However, that wasn't the only option for the wide receiver. Schefter added that the Philadelphia Eagles were willing to sign him too, offering a multi-year deal worth higher figures than the deal he finally signed with Pittsburgh.
JuJu's announcement of his return to Pittsburgh
The NFL star has taken to social media after agreeing to continue at the place where he feels at home, where there's mutual affection between him and the fans. "This is my home, they’re gonna need a wrecking ball to take me outta here! PITTSBURGH I LOVE YOU, LET’S GO!!!!!," he wrote on his Twitter account and hilariously adding a scene from the movie Wolf of Wall Street.
"Can’t say it enough, I love you Pittsburgh. Came in here a young 20 year old and you guys embraced me from the moment I got here. So much love. Had my back thru everything, all the struggles and success. So hard to leave. See you this Fall in Heinz WE’RE GOIN CRAZY!!!," he added.
JuJu Smith-Schuster built a deep bond with the Pittsburgh Steelers and decided to stay with them declining more lucrative offers from rivals and SB contenders. Last season, the WR scored 9 touchdowns, with 97 receptions for 831 yards. JuJu will remain at what has been his home for almost 4 years, where he's happy.
