4 reasons losing JuJu Smith-Schuster is not a big deal for Steelers

James Washington is better than people think

Seeing comments from writers and analysts around the league, people actually think there is a massive talent gap from JuJu to James Washington, but where on earth is this coming from? While Smith-Schuster owns the spotlight, it was Washington who proved to be Pittsburgh’s most efficient receiver in 2019 with poor quarterback play – and he was doing it in a more difficult role on the outside.

It’s important to remember that these guys were both second-round picks a few years back and that they share skill sets that are quite similar. Washington is a bit more of a long strider with build up speed while JuJu has a little more twitch to his game, but both players are incredibly physical at the catch point and with the ball in their hands.

Don’t underestimate how important opportunity is in the NFL, and so far, JuJu has had much more of it. But something tells me that Washington could be due for a breakout season. The former Oklahoma State product came up huge for the Steelers in big moments last year and if more work is added to his plate, I don’t see any reason why he couldn’t help fill the void that will be left by JuJu’s departure.