Draft Profile and NFL Entry
Juju Smith-Schuster was selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 62nd overall pick, out of the University of Southern California. His draft profile highlighted elite route-running, physical catch radius, and strong production in the Pac-12, which made him one of the most targeted receivers in college football. The Steelers traded up to secure him, valuing his ability to contribute immediately as a possession and deep threat. This selection is documented on the official NFL Draft page with full pick-by-pick data.
Before the draft, Smith-Schuster posted 145 career receptions for 2,322 yards and 26 touchdowns at USC, leading the Pac-12 in receiving yards as a junior. He was ranked as a top-100 prospect by multiple NFL Draft analysts and was projected as a first-round talent before a slight slip to the late second round. His combine and pro day metrics emphasized his 40-yard dash speed, hands, and body control, which directly influenced the Steelers' trade-up decision. The full draft board context is available on the official NFL Draft page.
NFL Career and Contract Earnings
Smith-Schuster spent his first five NFL seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2017 to 2021, establishing himself as a reliable offensive weapon with over 3,000 career receiving yards before age 25. He signed a four-year, $72 million contract extension with the Steelers in 2021, which included $40 million guaranteed and made him one of the highest-paid wide receivers at the time. The deal was structured with significant incentives tied to targets, receptions, and playoff performance. Details on the contract structure are covered by Forbes.
After leaving Pittsburgh, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022 and won Super Bowl LVII following the 2022 season, adding a championship ring to his career resume. He later signed with the New England Patriots and then the Dallas Cowboys, continuing to move through the league as a veteran depth and rotational receiver. Each transaction was reported through official NFL team announcements and verified by ESPN.
College Background and Statistical Profile
At USC, Smith-Schuster played under head coach Clay Helton and was part of a high-powered offense that featured quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Kedon Slovis. He finished his college career with 145 receptions, 2,322 yards, and 26 touchdowns, ranking among USC's all-time leaders in receiving yards and touchdowns. His production was supported by strong offensive line play and a scheme that emphasized vertical routes and contested catches. The full college statistics are available on the official USC Athletics site.
His draft profile frequently references his ability to win contested catches, physical style of play, and above-average speed for a receiver with his frame. Scouts noted his consistent hands and body control, which translated to a high catch rate in the NFL relative to his draft slot. The combination of college production and measurables made him a clear second-day pick with first-round upside, a profile that was widely covered by ESPN.