Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have been making headlines this week, illustrating the often challenging and always dynamic nature of life in the NFL.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Searches for a New Team
On Tuesday, JuJu Smith-Schuster was released by the New England Patriots. Smith-Schuster's time in New England was notably brief, and now the wide receiver is on the lookout for a new team that can capitalize on his skills. Since entering the league, Smith-Schuster has displayed considerable talent and potential, attributes that will likely attract interest from several teams needing an experienced and capable wide receiver. His quest for a new home in the NFL has just begun, and the coming weeks will be telling.
Martavis Bryant Joins the Washington Commanders
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders made a notable addition to their squad by signing Martavis Bryant. Known for his speed and propensity for making big plays, Bryant's arrival marks a strategic move by the Commanders to enhance their receiving corps. His ability to stretch the field will be a valuable asset for Washington as they aim to bolster their offensive capabilities.
Chase Claypool's Challenges in Buffalo
Things have been less positive for another former Steeler, Chase Claypool, who finds himself on the injured reserve list for the Buffalo Bills. Claypool suffered a toe injury on July 28, initially described as "day-to-day" by Bills head coach Sean McDermott. Unfortunately, the severity of his condition has raised concerns that he might miss the entire 2024 season.
“It's a shame because [some new players have] missed a considerable amount of time – Chase being one of them,” stated McDermott. His remarks underscore the frustration shared by both the team and the player. The inability to evaluate Claypool thoroughly due to his absence presents a challenge. “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody,” McDermott elaborated.
Chase Claypool's journey in the NFL has been a blend of highs and lows. Drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he made an immediate impact during his rookie season, scoring an impressive 11 touchdowns. He also etched his name in Steelers' history by becoming the first rookie to score four touchdowns in a single game.
The following season, however, saw a dip in his production, managing just two touchdown catches. Before the trade deadline in 2022, Claypool found himself traded to the Chicago Bears, where he caught only one touchdown in eight games. In a subsequent spell with the Bears and Dolphins, Claypool caught just eight of 21 targets. His performance raised questions, but his potential remained undeniable.
Despite these career fluctuations, Claypool showed promise during spring practices with the Buffalo Bills, earning praise for his efforts and work ethic. “I think he's come in and done all that we could have asked to this point,” McDermott commented. “He's been a good teammate, worked hard, been focused, made plays out there and I think that'll continue as we move forward. We're happy to have him.”
Adding another layer to the Bills' wide receiver narrative, the team traded away Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans. This move creates an opportunity for Claypool to step into a larger role, provided he can return to health and form. At 26 years old, Claypool's career is still in a formative stage, and the Bills are hopeful that he will recover and contribute significantly in the future.
The stories of Smith-Schuster, Bryant, and Claypool serve as a testament to the unpredictable and often tumultuous nature of NFL careers. Each player navigates their path with the hopes of proving their worth, overcoming setbacks, and ultimately making an indelible mark in the league. As the season progresses, the fortunes of these former Steelers will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike.