Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have made headlines this week due to significant developments in their careers. JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant, and Chase Claypool, all with storied tenures in Pittsburgh, are experiencing major changes that mark new chapters in their professional journeys.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released by Patriots
In a surprising move, JuJu Smith-Schuster was released by the New England Patriots on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster’s time with the Patriots was brief, and he is now on the hunt for a new team that can capitalize on his talents. Known for his charismatic personality and on-field production, Smith-Schuster’s availability on the free-agent market is sure to draw attention from teams in need of strengthening their receiving corps.
Washington Commanders Sign Martavis Bryant
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders have signed Martavis Bryant, aiming to add depth and explosiveness to their wide receiver group. Bryant, recognized for his speed and ability to make big plays, joins the Commanders as part of a concerted effort to enhance their offensive options.
Chase Claypool Placed on Injured Reserve
The Buffalo Bills have also been affected by significant changes at the wide receiver position. Chase Claypool, another former Steelers star, was placed on injured reserve after suffering a toe injury on July 28. Initially described by head coach Sean McDermott as a “day-to-day” issue, the severity of Claypool’s condition now raises concerns that he may miss the entire 2024 season.
Claypool’s journey in the NFL has had its ups and downs. Drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he made an immediate impact during his rookie season by scoring 11 touchdowns. He even became the first rookie in Steelers franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. However, his sophomore season saw a decline as he managed just two touchdown catches.
Claypool was traded to the Chicago Bears before the 2022 trade deadline, but his performance there was underwhelming, with only one touchdown in Pittsburgh's first eight games of the 2022 season. His stint with the Bears and Dolphins also failed to reignite his early promise, as he caught only eight of 21 targets combined last year.
Buffalo Bills' Calculated Move
Despite these recent challenges, Claypool earned praise during the Buffalo Bills' spring practices. Coach McDermott spoke highly of Claypool, emphasizing his dedication and professionalism. “It's a shame because [some new players have] missed a considerable amount of time – Chase being one of them,” McDermott stated. “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody.”
McDermott's comments reflect the uncertainty and frustration that injuries can bring to both players and coaching staff. “And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back,” he continued. “I think he's come in and done all that we could have asked to this point.”
Despite his setbacks, Claypool has worked hard to integrate into the team and had shown promising signs before his injury. “He's been a good teammate, worked hard, been focused, made plays out there and I think that'll continue as we move forward,” McDermott added. “We're happy to have him.”
At just 26 years old, Chase Claypool still has time to recover and contribute significantly to an NFL team. His journey, like those of Smith-Schuster and Bryant, underscores the volatility and unpredictability of professional sports careers.