Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have garnered significant attention this week for a mix of commendable and unfortunate reasons.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released by Patriots
JuJu Smith-Schuster, once a fan favorite in Pittsburgh, was released by the New England Patriots on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster's tenure in New England was short-lived, and his future in the NFL remains uncertain as he seeks to find another team willing to utilize his talents. His departure marks a significant moment in the ever-evolving landscape of NFL roster changes.
Washington Commanders Sign Martavis Bryant
In a move that has intrigued many, the Washington Commanders signed Martavis Bryant. Bryant, known for his speed and big-play ability, is looking to resurrect his career in the nation's capital. The signing comes as part of the Commanders’ effort to bolster their receiving corps and add depth and dynamism to their offense.
Buffalo Bills Place Chase Claypool on Injured Reserve
Perhaps the most impactful news involves wide receiver Chase Claypool, who was placed on injured reserve by the Buffalo Bills. Claypool's journey has been a rollercoaster ride since his promising rookie season with the Steelers. His latest setback, a toe injury suffered on July 28, has cast a shadow over his career rebirth efforts in Buffalo.
Bills coach Sean McDermott initially downplayed the injury, describing it as "day-to-day." However, the severity of Claypool’s condition has since escalated, leading to concerns that he may 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. "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."
Claypool's Promising Start and Subsequent Challenges
Chase Claypool began his NFL journey with much promise after being selected by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. His rookie season was nothing short of sensational, scoring 11 touchdowns and becoming the first rookie in franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. However, the trajectory of his career took a turn in subsequent seasons.
In 2021, Claypool managed just two touchdown catches, a significant drop from his rookie performance. The subsequent season saw him traded to the Chicago Bears before the trade deadline in 2022, where he only caught one touchdown through Pittsburgh's first eight games. Claypool's struggles continued as he caught just eight of 21 targets while suiting up for the Bears and Dolphins last year.
Signs of a Comeback Before Injury
The offseason offered a glimmer of hope for Claypool as he looked poised for a potential career resurgence in Buffalo. The Bills, having traded Stefon Diggs to Houston, set out to rebuild their receiving corps. Claypool made a strong impression during spring practices, earning praise from his new teammates and coaches. "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."
Unfortunately, his promising trajectory came to a halt with his toe injury, which highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers. At just 26 years old, Claypool is now facing another hurdle in his quest for NFL success. His determination and resilience will be crucial as he navigates the road to recovery.
In the ever-competitive world of the NFL, the fortunes of wide receivers can shift dramatically. For Smith-Schuster, Bryant, and Claypool, this week has underscored the highs and lows of professional football. Each player will need to leverage their experience and resilience as they confront the next chapters in their careers.