Spotlight On Fan Favorite: JuJu Smith-Schuster

From the moment former USC Trojan wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster stepped onto the field for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he has been a force to be reckoned with. Despite being the youngest player picked in the 2017 NFL draft, Smith-Schuster wasted no time adjusted to the highest level as he jumped, ran and danced his way to numerous rookie receiving records. Smith-Schuster was the youngest player to catch a touchdown since 1930, as well as the first to reel in three touchdowns before age 21. Including the longest touchdown of the 2017 season with a 97-yard reception against the Detroit Lions. To say that Smith-Schuster started his NFL campaign with a bang is a huge understatement. Beyond his undeniable athletic achievement, Smith-Schuster quickly became an NFL fan-favorite through his iconic touchdown celebrations, and his authentic social media presence. Here at SM2 we’re unbelievably impressed with Smith-Schuster’s athleticism, but especially his personal brand awareness. Without further ado, here are a few of our favorite moments from Juju’s social media, and how these strategies can be effectively implemented to help boost your personal brand.

1. Find JuJu's Bike

Lisa Sylvester / Via Twitter

"Find JuJu's Bike" was one of the first grassroots campaigns started by Smith-Schuster on social media. After his bike was stolen, Smith- Schuster took to social media and began posting about the missing bike. Soon after, notable outlets like Bleacher Report and Sports Center, and even Pittsburgh mayor, Bill Peduto joined the search effort. Not only was JuJu's bike returned, but he scored major personality points with the press and the public.

2. LeBron to the Steelers

JuJu Smith-Schuster / Via Instagram

Another personality-ploy from Smith- Schuster was his noble attempt to recruit LeBron James to the Pittsburgh Steelers. By leveraging the name of one of the most famous athletes in the world, JuJu launched another viral social media venture. While LeBron might not be leaving the Cavs for the NFL any time soon, JuJu is definitely establishing his personal brand more each day.

3. Just Being JuJu

USA Today / Via USA Today

From iconic touchdown celebrations to his well-known YouTube Channel, JuJu never hides his authentic personality. His fans get the feeling that they know JuJu, and that he provides a peak at his true personality through his social media platforms.

4. It's All About Fortnite

NYMag / Via NYMag

Who would have thought Fortnite would be a place for so much good press? Again, the key to JuJu's media success is his authenticity and personality. JuJu has a carefully designed public image that allows his fans to relate to him in a way that makes him so likeable.

5. #GoodJuJu

JuJu Smith-Schuster / Via Twitter

JuJu posts about his community outreach work in a way that comes off as genuine. Authenticity is key when displaying athletes and their work in the community. Done right, it can help to show what an athlete is passionate about off the field.