New England Patriots helmet. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The New England Patriots are reportedly releasing wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in a surprising turn of events.

The wideout is set to become a free agent after an unproductive year with the Pats.

That is according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who reported as much on Friday afternoon, citing a source.

While he failed to get going in New England last term, given his struggles with injuries, JuJu is likely to be targeted by at least a few NFL teams. The timing of his release will work in his favor, as the calendar allows him to join another franchise and get his feet wet before the start of the 2024 season.

The Patriots signed the WR to a three-year deal worth $25.5 million, which guaranteed him $16 million, last year. The team apparently had no problem taking on dead money, as he is owed $7 million for next season.

The AFC outfit will be shouldering over $9.6 million in dead money, with an additional $2.6 million hitting the books.

JuJu Smith-Schuster Was Ready To Go Off In 2024

JuJu Smith-Schuster played through knee issues in 2023. He underwent knee surgery after helping the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl the previous term and said he was around 60 percent going into the season.

It appears he was spot on, as he played just 11 games and made 29 catches for 260 yards.

The WR was looking to have a bounce-back campaign with the Patriots in 2024, claiming to be fully healthy heading into the season. However, given his release, he will not be able to do so.

Of course, there will be an opportunity to prove his worth in another uniform should another team opt to sign him. He’s only 27, after all.