BREAKING NEWS: Trusted Patrick Mahomes was re-signed by the Chiefs with new terms and conditions, or he would resign.

The news was first reported by FOX Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz on March 15, saying: “BREAKING: The Chiefs are re-signing WR JuJu Smith-Schuster, multiple sources tell @NFLonFOX. A key weapon for Patrick Mahomes stays in Kansas City.” It seems veteran wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster learned his lesson, as he chose to re-sign with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs this time around in free agency.

“The former Pro Bowler had interest elsewhere, but wanted to stay in KC,” Schultz also disclosed in a subsequent tweet.

Getting Smith-Schuster back is more crucial than it may appear, especially because fellow seasoned wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Justin Watson have decided to join with new teams in NFL free agency.

Smith-Schuster, like Watson, is more than just KC’s pass-catcher. With his 6-foot-1 size, the astute wide receiver plays a gritty role as a blocker in both inventive WR screens and the run game.

In addition, he has demonstrated his ability to lead a team by imparting a wealth of wisdom and experience to younger players like Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice.

Last but not least, Smith-Schuster’s remarkable chemistry with Mahomes may be the primary factor in KC’s decision to re-sign him in 2025. Smith-Schuster, who functions similarly to Travis Kelce in space, has been one of the wide receivers that just seem to click with the Chiefs’ top quarterback.

Additionally, Smith-Schuster’s presence will be crucial as an essential backup who is already accustomed with the KC scheme, especially since Rice might lose time due to a probable suspension next season.

It’s essentially a short-term re-up for Smith-Schuster and Kansas City after the 28-year-old chose to rejoin his former team after being released last August. JuJu Smith-Schuster Gets Do-Over of 2023 Free Agency, Selecting to Re-Up With Chiefs This Time NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported shortly after Schultz broke the Smith-Schuster news that it will be a “one-year deal” for the veteran wide receiver.

It’s good to see the reunion, even though it’s not shocking at all.

Shortly after winning a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in 2023, Smith-Schuster agreed to a three-year, $25.5 million deal with the New England Patriots. According to Over the Cap, the pass-catcher only made little more than $16.64 million from that terrible agreement with New England, but it was the first real multi-year payout of his career.

In contrast, Smith-Schuster only received $1.21 million from the Chiefs in 2024.

Putting finances aside, Smith-Schuster was confronted with the same choice as two years prior: either stay in Kansas City or sign with another team (perhaps for more money). Smith-Schuster decided to change the past and go back. For the Chiefs, who are hoping to win another title in 2025, that is fantastic news.

Targeting wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ passer rating has never fallen below 100.0.
Smith-Schuster’s overall output decreased in 2024, albeit primarily as a result of a reduced role.

However, when examining his numbers in more detail, two aspects of Smith-Schuster’s game continue to be clearly advantageous. His history with Mahomes is the first.