JuJu Smith-Schuster Knee 'Could Explode!' Patriots Worried?

The health of New England Patriots receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is in question after a report about the long-term viability of his surgically repaired knee.

As the New England Patriots prep for their season-opener in Foxboro against the Philadelphia Eagles, the rumor mill is picking up regarding the health of prized free-agent signing JuJu Smith-Schuster and whether his knee is truly able to withstand a 17-game regular season. 

During a recent appearance on NBC Sports Boston, Sports Illustrated NFL insider Albert Breer cast doubt on the long-term viability of Schuster and specifically his knee. 

“The underrated story here: JuJu Smith Schuster’s knee is a mess, and that thing could explode at any point,” Breer said. “So, you almost have to keep an extra receiver because of that.”

This concern from Breer comes despite Smith-Schuster undergoing surgery this offseason after hurting it in the AFC Championship between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnatti Bengals before playing on it in the Super Bowl. But why is this still an issue?

Breer didn't exactly give details on what is causing Smith-Schuster's knee to be a "mess," but it likely has something to do with the delay he suffered in the rehab process this offseason. … Although, even with the delay in the rehab process, Smith-Schuster didn't sound concerned when asked about it last week. 

“I don’t think my knee is a ticking time bomb,” Smith-Schuster said in an interview after last Wednesday's practice. “If anything, it’s something that’s getting stronger every day.”

This seems to be true, as he managed to be a full participant in training camp and even played - albeit sparingly - in the preseason for the Patriots. Yet, it is hard to ignore the 26-year-old's injury track record, as he's only played in 16 games three times since entering the league in 2017.

For a Patriots receiving core that still doesn't look to have that elusive No. 1 option, they will rely on Smith-Schuster to help fill that void. And if injuries prove to be a problem, then the Patriots situation could prove troublesome, as outside of Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker, and Kendrick Bourne, they are left with younger players.