Injuries can be a significant setback for any player, and Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is currently navigating this challenge.
After a standout performance in Week 5, where he recorded seven receptions for 130 yards, he was sidelined due to a right hamstring injury. Smith-Schuster's season stats, which include nine receptions for 147 yards and one touchdown, demonstrate his potential impact when healthy.
However, with his ongoing injury, the Chiefs have had to adapt, and the wideout's return timeline remains uncertain. Monitoring his practice status is essential, as it will be a key indicator of his readiness to return to the field.
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JuJu Smith-Schuster Injury Update
Since suffering his hamstring injury, Smith-Schuster has not participated in practice for two consecutive weeks. His lack of practice time raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming game against the Denver Broncos in Week 10.
Of the players on the Chiefs’ injury report, I did not see WR JuJu Smith-Schuster or TE Jared Wiley at practice on Saturday.
CB Nazeeh Johnson was working again, with a helmet. If Wiley cannot go, Kansas City could call up TE Peyton Hendershot from the practice squad.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) November 2, 2024
The Chiefs have seen a shift in their receiving dynamics with DeAndre Hopkins joining the team. His presence complicates matters for Smith-Schuster, as the receiving corps now includes Hopkins, Mecole Hardman, Xavier Worthy, and Justin Watson.
Hardman himself suffered a shoulder injury during their recent overtime victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, further complicating the depth chart for the Chiefs.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Fantasy Football Outlook
As the 27-year-old recovers from his injury, fantasy managers must weigh their options carefully. His explosive performance in Week 5 highlights his ability when healthy. Still, the uncertainty surrounding the wide receiver's return means he may not be a trustworthy start until he can prove his fitness in practice.
50-yard completion for JuJu and he’s at 117 yards on 6 catches!
📺: #NOvsKC on ESPN
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/7djKfPURaE— NFL (@NFL) October 8, 2024
If he remains a non-participant at practice leading up to Week 10, it would signal a likelihood of missing another game. For fantasy managers, this means exploring alternative options in case Smith-Schuster cannot play.
Keeping tabs on the veteran player's practice participation will be advised when determining if you need to pivot. If he can return to practice, he may regain his place as an asset in Kansas City's offense. Until then, caution is advised for fantasy owners counting on him for production.
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