Several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have made headlines this week, impacting various NFL teams as they navigate the off-season turmoil. Among them, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant, and Chase Claypool have each faced significant newsworthy events in their careers.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released by Patriots
In a surprising move, the New England Patriots released JuJu Smith-Schuster on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster’s tenure in New England was notably brief, raising questions about his future in the league. As an impact player with proven talent, Smith-Schuster is now seeking a new team that can leverage his skills on the field. His hunt for a new home adds another layer of excitement to the off-season as teams assess their rosters.
Martavis Bryant Joins the Washington Commanders
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders have taken steps to strengthen their receiving corps by signing Martavis Bryant. Known for his speed and big-play ability, Bryant’s addition is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s offensive options. Bryant's notoriety as a deep-threat receiver could prove pivotal for the Commanders as they look to enhance their aerial attack.
Chase Claypool Sidelined by Injury
The Buffalo Bills, on the other hand, have placed Chase Claypool on injured reserve due to a toe injury he sustained on July 28. Initially described by head coach Sean McDermott as a "day-to-day" situation, the severity of Claypool’s condition has snowballed, raising concerns that he might miss the entire 2024 season. McDermott conveyed a sense of disappointment over the situation, stating, “It's a shame because [some new players have] missed a considerable amount of time – Chase being one of them.”
Claypool, who was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, showcased his potential during his rookie season by scoring an impressive 11 touchdowns. Remarkably, he became the first rookie in Steelers franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. However, his subsequent seasons have been a rollercoaster. In 2021, he managed just two touchdown catches, and by 2022, he was traded to the Chicago Bears before the trade deadline. His performance in Pittsburgh before the trade yielded only one touchdown in eight games, and his stint with the Bears and Miami Dolphins last year saw him catching merely eight of 21 targets.
The rollercoaster continued when Claypool joined the Buffalo Bills. Despite his challenges, he earned commendation during spring practices with the team. McDermott praised him, saying, “It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody.” Claypool’s work ethic and attitude were evident, with McDermott elaborating, “And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back.” The head coach’s support was unwavering: “I think he's come in and done all that we could have asked to this point. 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.”
Claypool’s current setback is a significant blow, given his potential and the praise he received earlier this year. At just 26 years old, his future remains hopeful if he can successfully recover and return to form.
Trade Movements
Amidst these individual stories, the Bills made another big move by trading Stefon Diggs to Houston. This trade signifies a reshuffling within the Bills' receiving ranks, further altering the dynamic and expectations for their offensive performance next season.
The transitions affecting these former Steelers wide receivers underscore the ever-changing landscape of the NFL. Each player’s journey reflects the dense network of opportunities, challenges, and strategic decisions that define professional football. As teams continue to finalize their rosters, the developments involving Smith-Schuster, Bryant, and Claypool will undoubtedly remain topics of interest for fans and analysts alike.