The Pittsburgh Steelers were dominated by the New England Patriots in the 2019 NFL season opener. Fortunately, it appears they may have dodged a bullet concerning wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Smith-Schuster suffered an apparent toe injury late in the 33-2 loss. According to NFL Network's James Palmer, head coach Mike Tomlin doe not seem to be too concerned with his status for Week 2:

Mike Tomlin told reporters that he is optimistic about JuJu’s availability for Sunday.

This is certainly an encouraging update for the Smith-Schuster. The Steelers were unable to get anything going on offense even with their Pro Bowl wideout in the mix. The last thing they needed was to be shorthanded against the Seattle Seahawks.

Article Continues Below
More Pittsburgh Steelers News
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin answers questions from the medianduring the NFL Annual League Meeting at The Breakers.
Mike Tomlin’s leadership put into question by Steelers legendSteve Silverman ·
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on in the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium.
Steelers rumors: NFL Insider hints at Mike Tomlin’s firing amid desperationBenedetto Vitale ·
Jan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts after a catch against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
George Pickens replaced by Steelers star at Pittsburgh youth camp he bailed onBen Strauss ·
One mystery player in the middle, Aaron Rodgers, Alex Highsmith around him, Pittsburgh Steelers logo in the background
1 perfect Pittsburgh Steelers move to fill out roster before 2025 training campEnzo Flojo ·
steelers, steelers trade, pittsburgh steelers, cordarrelle patterson
1 obvious Pittsburgh Steelers trade candidate entering 2025 training campGarrett Kerman ·
Dec 15, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) warms up before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
DK Metcalf a ‘big reason’ Aaron Rodgers signed with the SteelersMike Gianakos ·

Smith-Schuster had been held in check by a talented Patriots secondary. He even had the honor of cornerback Stephon Gilmore mirroring him all night. He finished the game with six receptions for 78 yards.

The departure of wide receiver Antonio Brown left a notable void in the receiving corps this offseason. Although the Steelers were adamant about not getting caught up in all the distractions, it is clear that the focus was not there on either side of the ball in what should have been a statement game.

Despite the loss of Brown, there was plenty of optimism that Smith-Schuster would be able to step up and fill the void as the No. 1 option in the passing game. It is safe to say that things got off to a rough start in his new role. However, he will have an opportunity to bounce back against Seattle.