30 Facts About Juju Smith-Schuster

Early Life and Background

JuJu Smith-Schuster's journey to NFL stardom began in Long Beach, California. His early life and family background shaped the person he is today.

1. JuJu Smith-Schuster was born John Sherman Smith on November 22, 1996, in Long Beach, California.
2. He is of African-American and Samoan descent, a blend that contributes to his unique identity.
3. JuJu is the second-eldest of seven children, growing up in a large, loving family.
4. His father was not active in his life, but his stepfather, Lawrence Schuster, stepped in when JuJu was four years old.
5. To honor his stepfather, JuJu legally hyphenated his last name to Smith-Schuster.

The Origin of "JuJu"

Ever wondered how John Sherman Smith became JuJu? The story behind his nickname is as interesting as his gameplay.

6. JuJu's nickname originated from his aunt when he was just a few months old.
7. Initially called "John-John," his aunt decided "JuJu" was a better fit.
8. This nickname has stuck with him, becoming synonymous with his energetic and charismatic personality.

Early Football Experience

JuJu's love for football started young, and he had some pretty cool mentors along the way.

9. JuJu began playing football at the age of eight.
10. He was coached by none other than Snoop Dogg in the Snoop Youth Football League.
11. Snoop Dogg nicknamed him "Sportscenter" for his impressive plays.
12. This early exposure to football laid the foundation for his future success.

High School and College Career

JuJu's talent shone brightly during his high school and college years, setting the stage for his NFL career.

13. He attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School, known for producing NFL talent.
14. JuJu played both wide receiver and safety for the school's Jackrabbits football team.
15. Rated as a five-star recruit by Rivals.com, he was the second-best wide receiver in his class.
16. Initially planning to attend Oregon, JuJu chose the University of Southern California (USC) instead.
17. At USC, he earned second-team All-American honors in 2015.

NFL Draft and Early Career

JuJu's entry into the NFL was nothing short of spectacular. He quickly made a name for himself.

18. Selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 2017 NFL draft, JuJu was the youngest player in the NFL that year.
19. He quickly established himself as a reliable target for the Steelers.
20. JuJu holds several NFL records, including being the youngest player to reach 2,500 career receiving yards.
21. He is also the first player to have two offensive touchdowns of at least 97 yards.

Social Media and Off-Field Ventures

JuJu isn't just a star on the field; he's also a social media sensation and entrepreneur.

22. JuJu is active on TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and Twitch, often streaming games like Fortnite and Call of Duty: WWII.
23. In February 2018, he partnered with the popular gaming group FaZe Clan to sell merchandise.
24. JuJu owns a YouTube channel featuring gaming content and daily life videos, often starring his French bulldog Boujee.
25. He announced plans to own an esports team called Team Diverge in October 2020.

Community Involvement and Personal Life

JuJu's commitment to his community and his personal interests make him a well-rounded individual.

26. JuJu is involved in various community activities, such as attending concerts and participating in charity events.
27. He believes in living his life authentically and engaging with his fans.
28. JuJu's French bulldog, Boujee, has over 120,000 followers on Instagram and even has his own agent.
29. JuJu is a Christian and has stated that he grew up a fan of USC.
30. He looks up to wide receivers like Marqise Lee, Robert Woods, and Nelson Agholor, who inspired him during his college days.

JuJu Smith-Schuster: A Dynamic Force On and Off the Field

JuJu Smith-Schuster isn't just a football player; he's a phenomenon. From his early days in Long Beach to winning Super Bowl LVII with the Kansas City Chiefs, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Known for his explosive athleticism, JuJu has set multiple NFL records and continues to be a reliable target on the field. Off the field, his vibrant social media presence, gaming ventures, and community involvement make him a beloved figure. Whether he's streaming on Twitch, partnering with FaZe Clan, or engaging in philanthropic activities, JuJu's charisma shines through. His French bulldog, Boujee, even has a following! JuJu's story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a bit of fun. As he continues to evolve, there's no doubt he'll keep capturing hearts and making headlines.