The Tennessee Titans are urged to sign a Chiefs free agent, enhancing their roster with a proven, dynamic talent.

As the offseason heats up and NFL teams prepare for the 2025 season, roster moves and free-agent signings dominate the conversation. Teams are looking for ways to fill gaps, address weaknesses, and strengthen their overall depth as they approach the draft and training camp. One team that has been garnering attention for its need to add key talent is the Tennessee Titans, who have been urged by experts and analysts alike to pursue a notable free agent from the Kansas City Chiefs: JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Smith-Schuster, the former standout receiver for the Chiefs, played a pivotal role in Kansas City’s offense during their recent Super Bowl victories. As a veteran presence on the field and a proven playmaker, Smith-Schuster’s talents could be exactly what the Titans need to improve their passing game. The Titans, a team with a strong foundation in terms of defense and a star player in Derrick Henry, have struggled to keep pace offensively in recent seasons. While their defense has often kept them competitive, the lack of a consistent and dynamic aerial attack has been a hindrance. This has led many to believe that signing Smith-Schuster could be a game-changing move for the Titans as they look to elevate their offensive unit for the 2025 season.

In this article, we will explore why the Tennessee Titans are urged to sign JuJu Smith-Schuster, what his addition would bring to their roster, and how this move could reshape their offensive strategy moving forward.

Why the Titans Need JuJu Smith-Schuster

The Tennessee Titans have long been known for their tough, run-first mentality, led by Derrick Henry. Henry, a two-time NFL rushing champion and one of the most physically dominant players in the league, has been the focal point of the Titans’ offense for several years. The team has built its offensive identity around Henry’s ability to control the game and wear down defenses with his punishing style of running.

However, while Henry’s talents have been undeniable, the Titans have often struggled to complement his running game with a dynamic passing attack. The team has been inconsistent at quarterback, with Ryan Tannehill having some solid seasons but also showing vulnerability at times. The Titans have not had a true No. 1 wide receiver to consistently take the pressure off Henry, and their passing game has often been one-dimensional. In today’s NFL, where teams with high-powered offenses often dominate, the Titans’ lack of balance has been a significant issue.

Adding a proven wide receiver like JuJu Smith-Schuster could solve this issue. As a versatile, reliable target who can play both inside and outside, Smith-Schuster has the potential to bring an entirely new dimension to the Titans’ offense. His experience in Kansas City, where he thrived alongside Patrick Mahomes and helped lead the Chiefs to a Super Bowl win, gives him the pedigree the Titans need to add a dependable weapon to their offense.

Smith-Schuster’s Proven Track Record in Kansas City

Before discussing the impact Smith-Schuster could have on the Titans, it’s important to understand his success and value as a player, particularly during his time with the Chiefs. After being acquired by Kansas City in 2022 on a one-year deal, Smith-Schuster quickly proved to be a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes. While he may not have been the team’s primary option, he played a key role in their high-powered offense.

In the 2022 season, Smith-Schuster played in 16 games and recorded 78 receptions for 933 yards and 3 touchdowns. His role as a secondary target to wide receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce allowed him to show his ability to consistently move the chains and operate in a dynamic offense. What stood out most about Smith-Schuster’s time with the Chiefs was his ability to operate in the intermediate and short-range passing game. His reliable hands, crisp route-running, and ability to make plays after the catch made him a valuable asset to Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense.

In the 2023 season, Smith-Schuster continued to contribute to the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory. Although his statistical output wasn’t as high as in 2022, Smith-Schuster came through in big moments, showcasing his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. His chemistry with Mahomes, along with his physicality and competitive edge, were key factors in the Chiefs’ ability to succeed in the postseason.

The Chiefs’ decision to let Smith-Schuster walk in free agency, despite his positive impact on the team, opens up an opportunity for other teams, including the Titans, to add a player of his caliber to their roster. Smith-Schuster’s experience, leadership, and ability to make plays in both the regular season and postseason would provide an immediate boost to the Titans’ passing game.

What JuJu Smith-Schuster Brings to the Titans

1. A Reliable No. 1 Receiver

For the first time in several seasons, the Titans would have a wide receiver who can be counted on to take over as the team’s top option in the passing game. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Trey Phelps, and other receivers on the roster have shown flashes of potential, but none have been able to consistently emerge as the Titans’ primary target. Smith-Schuster, on the other hand, has proven he can step up and be the focal point of an offense, especially in crucial moments.

Smith-Schuster’s ability to create separation and be a reliable target on third downs, as well as in the red zone, would be invaluable for a team that has struggled to keep up with high-scoring offenses. His experience playing with elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes would also benefit Ryan Tannehill, as Smith-Schuster is adept at adjusting to different styles of play and can work well with quarterbacks who excel at improvisation.

2. Versatility and Route-Running Ability

JuJu Smith-Schuster is known for his versatility. Unlike some wide receivers who excel in specific roles (e.g., deep-threat specialists or possession receivers), Smith-Schuster can do it all. Whether it’s catching quick slants, running crisp intermediate routes, or going up for contested catches on the outside, Smith-Schuster’s diverse skill set makes him a constant threat on every play.

For the Titans, this versatility is crucial. While Henry will always be the focal point of the offense, the addition of Smith-Schuster would give the team a weapon who can be moved around the formation, create mismatches, and provide Tannehill with a consistent target at all levels of the field. This would also help open things up for other receivers on the roster, as defenses would have to account for Smith-Schuster’s ability to stretch the field and operate in various parts of the offense.

3. Leadership and Experience

The Titans are a team that prides itself on hard-nosed, physical football, and Smith-Schuster fits that mold. As a player with a championship pedigree and years of experience in the league, he would bring valuable leadership to the locker room. His ability to elevate the play of those around him—whether through his work ethic, competitive spirit, or vocal leadership—would resonate with younger players and veterans alike.

Smith-Schuster’s experience in the postseason would also be invaluable. The Titans have made several playoff appearances in recent years but have often faltered in crucial moments. Bringing in a player who has been to the highest heights of the NFL, including a Super Bowl championship, could help the team make that final push when it matters most.

4. Complementing Derrick Henry

A dynamic passing game opens up space for a star running back to operate, and Smith-Schuster’s ability to stretch the field would only make life easier for Derrick Henry. With defenses forced to account for Smith-Schuster’s presence, they would be less likely to stack the box against Henry, allowing the Titans to run their power game more effectively.

Additionally, with the passing game opening up, Smith-Schuster would create opportunities for Tannehill to utilize play-action more effectively. Play-action has been a staple of the Titans’ offense during their successful seasons, and with a player like Smith-Schuster, Tannehill would have more options downfield to take advantage of the defense’s missteps.

The Financial Side: Can the Titans Afford JuJu Smith-Schuster?

One of the primary questions surrounding the potential signing of JuJu Smith-Schuster by the Titans is whether they have the financial flexibility to make such a move. The Titans have a solid roster, but they also have several key players with large contracts. However, with a relatively modest cap hit in the 2024 season and the possibility of restructuring deals for veteran players, the Titans could find a way to fit Smith-Schuster’s salary into their plans.

The market for Smith-Schuster could also influence his asking price. While he is undoubtedly a talented receiver with a proven track record, his performance in recent seasons may not command a top-tier contract, making him more affordable for a team like the Titans.