Former Steelers Wide Receivers in the Spotlight
The past week has seen a significant focus on former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers, with multiple players making headlines due to roster changes and injuries.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released
JuJu Smith-Schuster, a former fan favorite in Pittsburgh, was released by the New England Patriots on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster's stint in New England was notably brief, and he’s now searching for a team that recognizes and can utilize his talents. The wide receiver market will be interesting to watch as teams assess the value Smith-Schuster can bring to their rosters.
Martavis Bryant Joins the Washington Commanders
Meanwhile, Martavis Bryant, another former Steelers wide receiver, found a new home with the Washington Commanders. Known for his exceptional speed and big-play capability, Bryant's signing is part of the Commanders’ strategy to enhance their receiving corps. This move underscores the Commanders' intent to deepen their offensive arsenal with experienced talent.
Chase Claypool Placed on Injured Reserve
Chase Claypool, who now plays for the Buffalo Bills, has been placed on injured reserve due to a toe injury sustained on July 28. Initially termed a "day-to-day" situation by Bills head coach Sean McDermott, the severity of Claypool’s condition has become a significant concern, raising doubts about his availability for 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 commented. “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody.”
The importance of Claypool to the Bills' offensive plans cannot be overstated. As McDermott noted, “And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back.”
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 remarkable four touchdowns in a single game—a first in Steelers franchise history. However, his performance dipped in the following seasons. In 2021, he managed just two touchdown catches, and his 2022 season began to decline, with only one touchdown through Pittsburgh's first eight games before being traded to the Chicago Bears.
Claypool's time with the Bears and later the Dolphins was less productive. He caught only eight of 21 targets, struggling to find the form that marked his early career. Still, he earned praise during spring practices with the Bills, showing glimpses of his potential.
“I think he's come in and done all that we could have asked to this point,” McDermott added. “He's been a good teammate, worked hard, been focused, made plays out there and I think that'll continue as we move forward.”
Despite his injury setbacks, Claypool’s work ethic and determination remain evident. McDermott expressed confidence in Claypool’s recovery and eventual contribution, stating, “We're happy to have him.”
Significant Trades and Future Prospects
Additionally, the Buffalo Bills have made other notable moves, including trading Stefon Diggs to Houston. This trade opens opportunities for Claypool to step into a more prominent role upon his recovery. At just 26 years old, Claypool's future in the NFL remains promising if he can overcome his current injury challenges.
As the NFL season unfolds, the fortunes of these former Steelers receivers will be closely monitored. From JuJu Smith-Schuster’s search for a new team to Martavis Bryant's fresh start in Washington and Chase Claypool's recovery journey, these players continue to shape their NFL legacies in new and evolving ways.