The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted wide receiver Chase Claypool in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. His career started off promising in Pittsburgh. In Claypool's first season as a rookie, he racked up 62 catches for 873 receiving yards and nine receiving touchdowns, along with two rushing touchdowns. It was an impressive start for the young wide receiver, and many fans believed he was destined for greatness.
Sportingnews.com
Former Steelers WR Chase Claypool tries to get free from Minnesota Vikings defenders on Thursday Night Football.
In his second season, Claypool caught 59 receptions for 860 receiving yards, but he only scored two touchdowns. He was traded during the 2022 NFL season after just eight games to the Chicago Bears for their second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. This trade appears to have been highly beneficial for the Steelers, as Claypool struggled to find playing time while the Steelers drafted Joey Porter Jr. with that pick.
Since leaving the Steelers, Claypool has had difficulty securing playing time. After the Bears, he spent nine games with the Miami Dolphins, catching only four passes. In May 2024, Claypool was given another chance, signing a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills.
As Organized Team Activities (OTAs) began, Claypool has impressed the Bills. Reporter Matt Parrino noted that Claypool has been the most consistent wide receiver during OTAs.
“Claypool has been the Bills’ most consistent receiver during OTAs and is setting the stage for what should be a run at the 53-man roster. He made the most explosive play of the day, catching a deep bomb from backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky during 11-on-11. Once he gets past his defender, it’s hard for the safeties to catch up and rookie Cole Bishop learned that lesson on the play, which would have gone for a touchdown in a game.”
Claypool appeared destined for stardom in his first two NFL seasons. However, the Steelers realized something before other organizations could. They knew the exact time they needed to get rid of Claypool. Confident in his abilities, Claypool famously claimed on a podcast that he knew he was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. That clip has turned into a meme as he has struggled since that statement.
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Former Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool warming up for a game with the Bears.
After his promising start, Claypool's career took a fast nosedive. Claypool struggled in Chicago and later with the Dolphins, managing just 22 catches for 217 yards and one touchdown over 19 games. He now looks to find a spot with the Bills and get his career back on track in the NFL.
Former Steelers WR Chase Claypool Is Running Out Of Chances
The drastic drop in his performance led to speculation that Claypool's effort waned after leaving Pittsburgh. His career bests remained rooted in his first two seasons, and his subsequent play has put him on the verge of falling out of the league entirely. Despite this, Claypool now finds himself in a potentially favorable situation with the Bills, who recently parted ways with some of their reliable wide receivers, including the notable departure of Stefon Diggs. Claypool is currently wearing Diggs' old number in Buffalo.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Former Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool struggles to catch a pass against the Bengals.
Claypool will have an opportunity to make the 53-man roster and push for a consistent role in the offense, as the Bills' wide receiver room is currently in need of options. During OTAs, he impressed the coaching staff by catching a deep ball from former Steelers quarterback Mitch Trubisky. If Claypool can continue to thrive during the offseason, he will be in a good position to gain momentum and revitalize his career. The Bills now have two failed Steelers players trying to regain momentum in their career in Buffalo.
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