The Pittsburgh Steelers need all the firepower they can get to beat the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. Unfortunately, their No. 1 wide receiver, JuJu Smith-Schuster, is questionable to play in the must-win matchup for Pittsburgh. He showed up on the Steelers' Friday injury report as a limited participant due to a foot injury; he previously practiced on Wednesday and Thursday.
On the year, Smith-Schuster has 33 receptions for 459 yards and three touchdowns. Over a full season, that converts to 66 receptions for 918 yards and six touchdowns — production dwarfed by his Pro-Bowl season in 2018. Despite the lack of gaudy numbers, Smith-Schuster's effect on the Steelers' offense is profound.
“He's attracting a lot of flies,” quarterback Mason Rudolph said after beating the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, via ESPN. “When he's not catching the ball, he understands the type of attention he attracts. He really does a good job for me, being a selfless player in this situation. He knows he's taking two with him, and somewhere else we're going to have the opportunity to throw the ball.”
If Smith-Schuster plays on Sunday, he will see a lot of Jalen Ramsey. That is a matchup he is looking forward to. However, if he does not play, it will be a mix of James Washington, Diontae Johnson and Johnny Holton facing the two-time Pro Bowler. Ryan Switzer will play in the slot.
Smith-Schuster could be a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup if head coach Mike Tomlin does not announce his availability on Saturday. If out, Pittsburgh could be hurting.
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