JuJu Smith-Schuster was pretty vocal earlier this week on the Adam Schefter Podcast, sounding off on several topics including his opinions on the expanded 17-game season.
But he also mentioned how he expects to be used differently in the Steelers' offense under Matt Canada.
"You're going to get the whole package," Smith-Schuster said. "The biggest thing people are talking about are me playing outside. You'll definitely see me play outside more and see a spark with me down the field."
It's a quick comment, but if true, it could mean a lot will change about the Steelers' offense. Smith-Schuster averaged 8.6 yards per reception in 2020, the lowest of any NFL receiver with at least 81 targets. But that wasn't for any deficiency on his own end, it was just how Randy Fichtner wanted him used.
Smith-Schuster had 103 targets in the slot, the most in the NFL. He also had the most receptions (81), touchdowns (9), fourth-most receiving yards (735) and third-most first downs (41) out of the slot. Lining up there made him a consistent short option for Ben Roethlisberger, whose 309 attempted targets under 10 yards led the NFL.
That was a big part of Fichtner's strategy to ease the gameplan for Roethlisberger's arm coming off elbow surgery, but it backfired when teams caught on and would double-team and even triple-team Smith-Schuster on short routes.
I detailed the need to diversify Smith-Schuster's routes more in a Carter's Classroom back in March. Lining up Smith-Schuster in different spots will force defenses to adjust their game plans for different options when they see Diontae Johnson, James Washington or Chase Claypool line up in the slot while Smith-Schuster lines out wide.
It's nothing foreign to him either, as he's made receptions while lining up outside the numbers against All-Pro cornerbacks like A.J. Bouye and Jalen Ramsey over the years. Using that more in the Steelers offense will bring more balance to the passing attack.
YOUR TURN: Should Smith-Schuster line up less in the slot in 2021?