The New England Patriots’ newly-signed wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is having flashbacks to his academic life as he prepares for his first season in his new destination.
Smith-Schuster was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 2017 NFL draft and racked up 3,855 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns in 63 games over his five seasons with the team before signing an incentive-laden one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs last offseason.
The 26-year-old filled a much-needed hole on the Patriots roster by signing a three-year, $33 million deal, including $16 million fully guaranteed over the first two seasons.
JuJu Smith-Schuster thinks of himself as a college student under coach Bill Belichick
The Patriots‘ newly acquired member JuJu Smith-Schuster shared some of the adjustments he would likely make in his new destination on Tuesday.
The six-year NFL veteran explained the offense utilizes terminology he isn’t familiar with from his time with the Chiefs or Steelers, hence, he is putting a lot of effort into thoroughly grabbing the term.
“I would say it is a very varied offense. I can say I’m definitely studying more. I’m getting the offense down. The terminology is different than what I’ve learned in the past. But that just goes to say, these coaches are really, really smart when it comes to football and just knowing the game, knowing defense, terminologies”, he said.
Former Chiefs receiver jokingly compared learning the Patriots’ playbook to preparing for the exam, stating he is enjoying the learning curve.
“I feel like I’m back in college. After this, I’m going to go home, put a couple hours in, study, put on some Call of Duty, get back into studying and go back to my flashcards. I’m making flashcards. I’ve got a lot of flashcards. It’s awesome – the whole experience of just being here. That’s why I love football so much. You just keep growing”, he added.
Smith-Schuster later gushed about ex-Tom Brady coach Bill Belichick saying he makes everyone feel welcome to the franchise.
“The playbook is amazing, honestly. It’s great. Bill [O’Brien] is great. He’s a great coach. He makes everyone feel welcomed, excited. Just happy to be a part of the team, but also ready to work.”
The veteran wide receiver is expected to take on the slot-receiver role vacated by Jakobi Meyers as he signed a three-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders worth $33 million, including $21 million guaranteed in free agency.
The Patriots fans will eagerly await to witness if their new wide receiver can come away with his “degree” well before the first week and hit the ground running in an offense.
