Steve Smith Sr. Expresses Mixed Sentiments About Jerry Jeudy Ahead of Broncos-Chiefs Game

Former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. didn’t hold back when addressing Jerry Jeudy, the Denver Broncos’ wide receiver, just before their game against the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. Their pre-game exchange was notable and expressed a mix of criticism and acknowledgment.

Smith had previously been critical of Jeudy, using the term “JAG” (an acronym for “just a guy”) to describe Jeudy’s average performance on the field. However, in a recent turn of events, Smith appeared to be somewhat impressed by Jeudy’s play, which prompted a unique encounter between the two.

Jeudy clearly remembered Smith’s previous comments and wanted to address them face to face. He expressed his willingness to apologize for his past remarks. Jerry Jeudy shared, “When I saw him, he’s playing well. I wanted to say to him face to face, like, ‘Hey, I know I said some things in the past I probably shouldn’t have, and I’m sorry.’ That’s what I wanted to say to him.”

Smith recounted their exchange, revealing that Jeudy’s response was less than cordial. “His response was ‘ninja’ — I’m using the word ninja — ‘I don’t mess with you.’ There was a curse word.”

In response to Jeudy’s retort, Smith didn’t hold back from expressing his opinion once again. He apologized for his earlier “JAG” comment but reiterated his skepticism about Jeudy’s performance. “I’m sorry I said that you were JAG — just a guy — who’s an average wide receiver they used a first-round pick on that isn’t doing anything,” Smith stated. He expressed his hope that Jeudy would prove him wrong and deliver a noteworthy performance in the game.

Furthermore, Smith raised concerns about Jeudy’s ability to handle constructive criticism, suggesting that he is “mentally unable” to accept feedback about his performance as a wide receiver. He classified Jeudy as a “Tier 3” player and appeared skeptical about his potential to excel.

Jerry Jeudy, selected as the 15th overall pick from Alabama three years ago, was part of a highly competitive draft class that included standout wide receivers like Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, Brandon Aiyuk, Tee Higgins, and Michael Pittman. Despite being a first-round pick, Jeudy has yet to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a single season and has not earned a Pro Bowl selection.

In the current NFL season, Jeudy has accumulated 17 receptions for 208 yards in four games, still awaiting his first touchdown. Unfortunately, the Broncos have had a challenging season, with a 1-4 record after a recent loss to the New York Jets.

Steve Smith Sr.’s candid remarks underscore the high expectations set for players in the NFL, particularly those drafted in the first round. While Smith expressed hope for Jeudy’s improvement, he remains skeptical of the young wide receiver’s ability to handle criticism constructively.

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