Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster will reportedly miss the remainder of the 2021 NFL season, sources with knowledge of the situation told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Sources initially told Rapoport that Smith-Schuster underwent a "successful" surgical procedure on his injured right shoulder, however, Rapoport later clarified that Smith-Schuster is still scheduled to undergo surgery following an MRI on Sunday night.
"#Steelers WR JuJu Smith-Schuster had his shoulder reduced last night after a dislocation that can often result in a labral tear," Rapoport tweeted. "He was examined and had an MRI last night, at which point the decision was made that he needed surgery."
Rapoport's confirmation comes hours after he initially reported Smith-Schuster was expected to be placed on injured reserve and could miss the remainder of the season after receiving treatment at a hospital for "a potentially serious injury" and was scheduled to undergo more tests on Monday.
“No one has been specific and firm about his timeline, but I’m told injured reserve is the likelihood and season-ending is possible,” Rapoport said during an appearance on NFL Network's Good Morning Football show.
Smith-Schuster's injury occurred with 5:47 left in the second quarter after he was tackled by Kareem Jackson on a 3-yard end-around run.
The former Pro Bowl wide receiver was seen screaming in pain as team trainers examined his right arm and shoulder on the sideline before taking him to the locker room.
Smith-Schuster had previously experienced bruised ribs after the Steelers' September 27 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, ruling him out for the remainder of the game.
The 24-year-old has 15 receptions for 129 yards through his first five games.
Smith-Schuster opted to return to the Steelers as a free agent in March after signing a one-year, $8 million contract.
Pittsburgh's wide receiver group is already dealing with injuries to Diontae Johnson (knee), Chase Claypool (hamstring), and James Washington (groin) -- who was inactive for Sunday's game -- through their first five games.
Why Matt Stafford is Actually Holding Sean McVay and the Rams Offense Back
Why Aaron Rodgers Will Soon Be the Quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers
Why Patriots Fans Shouldn't Be Excited About Mac Jones' NFL Future