Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have been making headlines this week, with notable moves and updates surrounding JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant, and Chase Claypool.
JuJu Smith-Schuster's Short Tenure in New England Comes to an End
JuJu Smith-Schuster, who recently found himself out of a job, was released by the New England Patriots on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster's stint with New England was brief, raising questions about what lies ahead for the talented wide receiver. As he navigates the free agency waters, Smith-Schuster is on the lookout for a new team that can utilize his skills effectively.
Washington Commanders Take a Chance on Martavis Bryant
In a bid to strengthen their receiving corps, the Washington Commanders signed the speedy and dynamic Martavis Bryant. Known for his big-play ability, Bryant adds a new dimension to the Commanders' offense. His presence is expected to create opportunities for explosive plays, enhancing the team's competitive edge.
Chase Claypool's Injury Woes Continue
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills have placed Chase Claypool on injured reserve due to a toe injury sustained on July 28. Initially described by head coach Sean McDermott as a "day-to-day" issue, the injury's severity has since raised concerns that Claypool might miss the entire 2024 season. McDermott expressed his disappointment over the situation, stating, “It's a shame because [some new players have] missed a considerable amount of time – Chase being one of them.”
A Promising Start Cut Short
Chase Claypool, who was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, showed immense promise during his rookie season by scoring 11 touchdowns. Notably, he became the first rookie in Steelers franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. Despite a stellar start, his performance waned in 2021 with just two touchdown catches, and his struggles continued into the next season.
Challenging Seasons and a New Home
Claypool was traded to the Chicago Bears before the 2022 trade deadline. However, his production did not meet expectations, catching only one touchdown in Pittsburgh's first eight games of the 2022 season. His time with the Bears and Dolphins last year was also underwhelming, with Claypool catching just eight of 21 targets.
Despite this, he received praise during spring practices with the Buffalo Bills, a sentiment echoed by Coach McDermott: “We're happy to have him.” The coach highlighted Claypool's efforts, saying, “He’s been a good teammate, worked hard, been focused, made plays out there and I think that'll continue as we move forward.”
Future Uncertainties and a Glimmer of Hope
The Bills’ trade of Stefon Diggs to Houston has further complicated Claypool’s trajectory. As he continues his recovery, McDermott remains hopeful, acknowledging Claypool’s determination: “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody. And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back.”
At 26 years old, Chase Claypool's future in the NFL remains uncertain. However, the coaching staff's confidence and his past performances suggest that a fully recovered Claypool could still make a significant impact on the field. For now, all eyes will be on his progress, hoping that he can return stronger and regain the form that once made him a standout rookie.