Report: Steelers' JuJu Smith-Schuster Likely out vs. Bills with Knee Injury

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is not expected to play on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills after reaggravating his knee injury during Thursday's practice, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Smith-Schuster told reporters Friday that he didn't suffer a setback, noting that he had to "slow [himself] down" as he continued to work his way back:

The 23-year-old has not played since Nov. 14, missing his team's past three games. The Steelers are 3-0 during his absence.

"It's tough, man," Smith-Schuster told reporters Friday. "I've never been in a situation like this where, you know, I've been out for a long period of time, and it's kind of week by week. It's something that's definitely new to me. ... It could be frustrating at some times, but at the same time, you know, it's just part of life, part of the game. This is what comes with our job."

Schefter previously reported Smith-Schuster was expected to make his return against the Bills.

In his third NFL season, Smith-Schuster has seen his numbers take a nosedive amid the struggles of the passing game without Ben Roethlisberger and his own injury issues. He missed three games in November and December with a knee injury before returning in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills.

"It is frustrating not being out there to help the guys make plays," Smith-Schuster told reporters. "I feel like I'm a huge part of this team, but at the same time, I have to do what's right for my team, for me to get healthy. Our guys can lead us to the playoffs, and hopefully I'll be back in time to contribute to the end of the season or the playoffs."

Overall, Smith-Schuster has compiled 38 receptions for 524 yards and three touchdowns. James Washington will return to the top of the wideout depth chart with Smith-Schuster out of the lineup.