The New England Patriots are gearing up for what promises to be an intense training camp, and all eyes are on the wide receiver unit. Leading the charge is JuJu Smith-Schuster, a former Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler, who signed a three-year, $25.5 million deal last offseason. Smith-Schuster brings a wealth of experience to the Patriots, having logged a 1,000-yard season in his career. However, he isn't resting on his laurels.
"I think everyone out here in that room is fighting for a spot. Obviously, there's guys who have spots and I feel like for myself it's something that -- coming out here, I've got to prove [myself and] compete with these guys. These guys are very good. Very talented on the inside and outside," Smith-Schuster said, reflecting on the fierce competition within the team.
This year, the Patriots are emphasizing both performance and potential, a strategy evident in their recent draft picks and free-agent signings. The team drafted promising wide receivers Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, and secured veteran K.J. Osborn in free agency. DeMario Douglas has also emerged as a reliable option, regarded as a roster lock given his impressive performances during the camp.
Yet, spots on the Patriots' opening 53-man roster are limited, making the competition among receivers particularly cutthroat. Smith-Schuster is not only competing against newcomers but also against established talents like Jalen Reagor, Tyquan Thornton, and Kayshon Boutte. Last season, Smith-Schuster managed to play in only 11 games, catching 29 balls for 260 yards and a touchdown before his season was cut short.
"You have a lot of great guys in the room, a lot of people who have been making plays all camp. I would say that the competition level is very, very high. So everyone that's out there, when your opportunity comes you've gotta make the best out of it," Smith-Schuster noted, acknowledging the depth of talent in the squad.
Smith-Schuster's determination to prove himself is palpable. "It's always been in me, that dawg, that competitiveness. I've been in a lot of tough situations, making those hard catches and being able to convert and move the sticks. Something I'm very proud of. So for sure, got that dawg in me. For sure," he declared, underlining his drive to excel.
Despite the high level of competition, Smith-Schuster has a significant dead cap hit of $12.26 million for the coming season, which might influence the team's roster decisions. Nevertheless, the coaching staff is closely monitoring his performance, as well as that of his competitors. The Patriots' stringent evaluation process ensures that only the most skilled and determined players make the final cut.
The Patriots' rigorous training camp highlights the team's commitment to excellence and their strategic approach to molding a squad capable of contending in the upcoming season. With veteran and young talent vying for limited spots, the outcome remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that JuJu Smith-Schuster, along with his fellow receivers, are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to secure a place on the team.