Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have found themselves at the center of NFL headlines this week, showcasing the uncertain and swiftly changing landscape of professional football.
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Brief Stint with the Patriots Ends
JuJu Smith-Schuster, once a standout receiver for the Steelers, was released by the New England Patriots on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster’s time in New England was notably short-lived, and he now finds himself in search of a team willing to utilize his talents. His release marks another twist in his career, which has seen both high points and recent challenges.
Washington Commanders Sign Martavis Bryant
Meanwhile, another former Steelers receiver, Martavis Bryant, has landed a new opportunity. The Washington Commanders signed Bryant in a move to strengthen their receiving corps. Known for his exceptional speed and big-play ability, Bryant’s addition is part of the Commanders' strategic effort to enhance their offensive options. His dynamic presence on the field has long been recognized, and the Commanders are hopeful that he can help transform their aerial attack.
Chase Claypool's Setback at Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills have placed Chase Claypool on injured reserve, an unfortunate development after the 26-year-old wide receiver suffered a toe injury on July 28. Initially, head coach Sean McDermott described the injury as "day-to-day," but concerns have since grown regarding the severity of Claypool’s condition. There is now a palpable fear that Claypool might miss the entire 2024 season.
Reflecting on the impact of Claypool’s absence, McDermott commented, “It's a shame because [some new players have] missed a considerable amount of time – Chase being one of them.” The coach acknowledged the challenge of evaluating players who are sidelined, adding, “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody.”
A second-round pick by the Steelers in the 2020 NFL Draft, Claypool made an immediate impact during his rookie season, scoring 11 touchdowns and becoming the first rookie in Steelers' franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. Despite a stellar start, his subsequent seasons have been marred by inconsistencies and injuries.
A Promising Start Dimmed by Injuries
Claypool’s performance dipped in 2021 with only two touchdown catches. His tenure with the Steelers ended abruptly when he was traded to the Chicago Bears before the 2022 trade deadline. Even there, Claypool struggled, catching only one touchdown in Pittsburgh's first eight games of the 2022 season. His stint with the Bears was marked by limited success, hauling in just eight of 21 targets. His time with the Dolphins also did not yield significant results.
Despite these setbacks, Claypool showed promise during spring practices with the Buffalo Bills. McDermott praised his attitude and effort, indicating that Claypool had “done all that we could have asked to this point.” The coach continued, “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 expressed optimism about Claypool's potential return, stating, “And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back.” Indeed, the coach’s sentiments convey a sense of hope and determination that Claypool will overcome his current hurdles.
Looking Forward
The past week's developments involving former Steelers wide receivers underscore the volatile nature of NFL careers. As JuJu Smith-Schuster seeks a new team and Martavis Bryant aims to rejuvenate his career with the Commanders, the football community will be watching closely. Concurrently, fans and the Bills' organization alike are holding out hope that Chase Claypool’s recovery will be swift and complete, allowing him to return to the field where he has already demonstrated significant promise.
While the paths of Smith-Schuster, Bryant, and Claypool have diverged since their days in Pittsburgh, their journeys remain captivating storylines in the ongoing narrative of NFL seasons.