The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the hunt for the AFC North title and a playoff berth, but that’s not the only reason ailing wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster insists he will play Sunday.
The Steelers (8-5-1) own a half-game lead over Baltimore atop the division but face a rugged test on the road against the NFL-best New Orleans Saints (12-2).
Smith-Schuster is dealing with a groin injury that has him questionable for Sunday’s game, but he realizes how much is on the line — and not just for his teammates.
A second-round pick of Pittsburgh in the 2017 NFL Draft, Smith-Schuster is fully aware a lot of championship hopes are riding on him in the world of fantasy football — and he sought to ease the minds of owners by insisting via social media that he will play.
“A lot on the line this week. The whole season comes down to this,” wrote Smith-Schuster on his Twitter account Saturday. “Yes, I’m talking about the fantasy football championship round. Of course I’m playing Sunday!!! Theres no way I can let down the real ones who believed in me by drafting me!! Let’s get it!!”
How Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and the team’s medical staff feels about Smith-Schuster’s proclamation is unclear, but the USC standout undoubtedly has become a darling of fantasy owners this season.
After a solid rookie campaign in which he posted 58 catches for 917 yards and seven touchdowns, Smith-Schuster has been an explosive weapon opposite perennial Pro Bowler Antonio Brown this season.
The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Smith-Schuster leads the Steelers in both catches (95) and receiving yards (1,274) to go along with six scoring passes. He has seven 100-yard games on the season, including three in the past five games.
Smith-Schuster was unable to practice Friday after suffering the groin injury in Thursday’s practice. James Washington would start in his place if he is unable to go.
