Pittsburgh Steelers activate wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster ahead of wild-card game at Kansas City

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In January, what seemed impractical in October is a reality. JuJu Smith-Schuster was activated off injured reserve on Saturday, after suffering a shoulder injury against the Broncos in Week 5.

Smith-Schuster is expected to play in the wild-card game.

Najee Harris was removed from the injury report and is expected to play on Sunday.

Smith-Schuster said that he had recovered from his season-ending shoulder injury earlier than expected. I'm so happy I get another chance to play in a playoff game and keep our season going.

Smith-Schuster will likely be on a snap count. His addition is a boost for the team.

Ben Roethlisberger told the DVE Morning Show that he had a significant injury. The way JuJu plays the game is physical. We all know it. We love it. This offense could be boosted by him. Even if it's just a few plays, the encouragement he brings on the sideline is still there. It would be huge if you had one of your guys out there.

Smith-Schuster has been out of action for the past 14 weeks after undergoing shoulder surgery. He practiced with the team on Thursday and Friday.

Diontae Johnson said that it looked like he was ready. He looked smooth today, but he has to ease himself back into things.

Natural catcher with great hands. Strong guy with big hands. Showing that he's still JuJu at the end of the day is just seeing him run around. It's exciting.

Smith-Schuster, who is set to be a free agent after the season, returned to the Steelers on a one-year deal in free agency, but the early injury limited his impact this season. He has 15 catches for 129 yards through five games. Since Smith-Schuster went out, Ray-Ray McCloud has filled his role as a slot receiver, catching 39 catches for 277 yards.

"He always brings that positive energy that he's always had," Johnson said. You want to bring back a guy who is all about football and his teammates. Doing everything for the team. He's also a people person. There's never a dull moment when he's around.