Exactly how valuable is JuJu Smith-Schuster to the Steelers at this point?

With the discussions involving Steelers JuJu Smith-Schuster’s price and antics, his worth as an asset has been brought into question for some Pittsburgh fans.

The Steelers are one of multiple NFL teams that are wishing for better days ahead in regards to their salary cap dilemma. In response to the hectic economy within the organization, there have been some big names thrown around as to who could and maybe even should get the boot to let the wallet breathe a little.

One of those names was that of veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, but rumors about him have died down some following his public willingness to take a pay cut, no matter how massive. That brings us to another Pittsburgh playmaker, wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, whose contract is due to expire in the near future. How much will he be worth in the eyes of his superiors? And will whatever number they come to be one that he agrees with?

The way I see it, JuJu is not in control when it comes to setting his salary. In other words, he is not worth negotiating with. If he does not accept the offer that he is made, then he can make sure the door doesn’t hit him on his way out. While that may sound harsh, such a decision can neither be considered nor handled like a fan. Rather it must be made like a businessman, someone who is investing good money into a particular product. Since football is a business, and Smith-Schuster is a player being paid in terms of his value, that is exactly how the situation should be looked upon.

Based on first impressions, a big portion of JuJu’s disadvantage heading into this debacle is to blame the team he plays for. The Pittsburgh Steelers currently have one of the deepest receiving units in the entire league, with a QB who can still sling the rock quite well, so the passing offense would survive with or without him. But such an observation can drag virtually any receiver’s importance on a roster into a shadow of doubt. What hurts Smith-Schuster individually are the headlines that he has amassed while not even playing, which can possibly make him look too disruptive for his own good to who all is forking out the bucks for his addition on the depth chart.

So to summarize, JuJu Smith-Schuster is certainly worthy of remaining on the Pittsburgh offense. In my opinion, he has shown that he can play like he is arguably the best receiver the Steel City has to offer. However, what moves the chains goes far beyond just one target. So if he is unwilling to be lenient in such a trying time for the Steelers’ cap space, then maybe he should seek another destination to continue his career. And for his sake, he needs to make a habit out of staying away from drama, regardless of where he may end up.