Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have made headlines this week, signaling significant shifts for the players and their respective teams. The trio of JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant, and Chase Claypool have all experienced notable changes in their careers.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released by Patriots
JuJu Smith-Schuster's brief stint with the New England Patriots came to an end on Tuesday when the team announced his release. Smith-Schuster had joined the Patriots with considerable fanfare, but his tenure was cut short, leading him to seek new opportunities elsewhere in the NFL. It remains to be seen which team will capitalize on his talent next.
Martavis Bryant Joins the Commanders
In a strategic move to enhance their receiving corps, the Washington Commanders signed former Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant. Known for his exceptional speed and big-play capability, Bryant is expected to bring a new dynamic to the Commanders' offense. This acquisition is part of the Commanders' broader efforts to strengthen their team ahead of the upcoming season.
Chase Claypool's Uncertain Future with Bills
Chase Claypool's situation with the Buffalo Bills has taken an unfortunate turn, as the team has placed him on injured reserve due to a toe injury sustained on July 28. Initially described as a "day-to-day" issue by head coach Sean McDermott, the severity of Claypool’s condition has raised concerns that he could 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,” McDermott remarked, highlighting the frustrations faced by the team and the player. Claypool's injury has made it difficult for the Bills to fully evaluate his potential contributions, with McDermott adding, “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody.”
Despite the injury, Claypool has earned praise for his efforts during spring practices. “I think he's come in and done all that we could have asked to this point,” McDermott said. “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.”
Chase Claypool's Career So Far
Claypool, selected by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, made an immediate impact during his rookie season by scoring 11 touchdowns, including a record-setting four-touchdown game. However, his subsequent seasons have been tumultuous. In 2021, he managed just two touchdown catches, and his performance in 2022 saw a significant decline, with only one touchdown through Pittsburgh's first eight games. This eventually led to his trade to the Chicago Bears before the trade deadline in 2022.
His time with the Bears and Dolphins last year was also underwhelming, catching just eight of 21 targets. Despite these challenges, his potential prompted the Buffalo Bills to trade for him, hoping to rejuvenate his career. The recent injury, however, puts another obstacle in his path.
As the 26-year-old wide receiver works towards recovery, his future in the NFL hangs in the balance. The league and fans alike will be watching closely to see if Claypool can return to his impressive rookie form or if his career will be marred by injuries and missed opportunities.
The release of Smith-Schuster, the signing of Bryant, and the uncertain status of Claypool all underline the often volatile nature of professional football careers. Each player, having once donned the black and gold of the Steelers, now faces a new chapter, carrying the lessons and experiences from Pittsburgh into their next endeavors.