FOXBORO — After enjoying a restricted function in final Sunday’s season opener, Patriots large receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster mentioned Friday he isn’t bothered by his lack of enjoying time.
“No, I’m not frustrated at all. I’ve been in this league way too long,” Smith-Schuster advised reporters in entrance of his locker. “When the time is called, the opportunity is called for me, I’ll be ready.”
Smith-Schuster performed 54% of the Patriots’ offensive snaps versus the Eagles, fewer than sixth-round rookie Kayshon Boutte. Another sixth-round rookie, Demario Douglas, changed Smith-Schuster within the slot through the staff’s remaining drive to attempt to win the sport. Douglas (40) and backup tight finish Mike Gesicki (36) completed with extra receiving yards than Smith-Schuster, who totaled 33 yards on 4 catches.
Smith-Schuster additionally addressed stories that his surgically repaired knee has restricted his burst and run-after-catch capacity, one of many causes the Patriots signed him to a 3-year, $25.5 million deal in free company. The Herald reported earlier this week it has affected Smith-Schuster’s efficiency and factored into his sluggish slide down the depth chart. Smith-Schuster denied Friday that the knee is lower than totally wholesome.
“Yeah, 100%. I think it’s 100%. I’ve been working on it every day,” he mentioned. “It’s nice to be here and find a nice routine, get in with the trainer every single day to go out there and perform.”
According to sources, Smith-Schuster will not be presently seen as one of many staff’s 5 best pass-catchers. His enjoying time may very well be in additional jeopardy if DeVante Parker makes his season debut Sunday evening versus Miami after sitting out final weekend with a knee harm. Parker has participated within the staff’s final six practices after out-performing the entire receivers throughout coaching camp.
Source: www.bostonherald.com
