In a week filled with significant moves and unexpected developments, several former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have dominated headlines across the NFL. Notably, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant, and Chase Claypool have all experienced pivotal changes in their professional journeys.
JuJu Smith-Schuster Released by Patriots
JuJu Smith-Schuster's tenure with the New England Patriots has come to an abrupt end. The Patriots released the wide receiver on Tuesday, a move that has left many in the football community surprised. Smith-Schuster, who joined the Patriots in the offseason, is now on the lookout for a new team willing to capitalize on his talents.
Smith-Schuster's time in New England was marked by challenges, as he struggled to find his rhythm within the Patriots' system. Despite the potential he showcased in previous seasons with the Steelers, it appears a change of scenery might be necessary for him to rejuvenate his career. For now, Smith-Schuster remains a free agent, hoping to attract interest from teams in need of a proven playmaker.
Washington Commanders Sign Martavis Bryant
In an effort to enhance their receiving corps, the Washington Commanders have signed Martavis Bryant, a player renowned for his speed and big-play ability. Bryant, who last played in the NFL in 2018, has been working to return to the league and make an impact once again.
The Commanders' decision to bring in Bryant reflects their commitment to bolstering their offensive arsenal. With Bryant's deep-threat potential, the Commanders are optimistic that he can provide a much-needed spark to their passing game. His presence on the field could serve as a critical component of the team's strategy moving forward.
Injured Reserve for Chase Claypool
The Buffalo Bills have placed Chase Claypool on injured reserve following a toe injury he sustained on July 28. Initially described by head coach Sean McDermott as "day-to-day," the severity of Claypool's condition soon raised concerns 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 remarked. "It's just hard to evaluate when the players aren't out there, whether it's Chase or anybody."
Claypool's career has seen its share of highs and lows since being selected by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, scoring 11 touchdowns and becoming the first rookie in Steelers franchise history to score four touchdowns in a single game. However, his sophomore season in 2021 saw a noticeable decline, with just two touchdown catches.
The 26-year-old wide receiver's journey took another turn when he was traded to the Chicago Bears before the trade deadline in 2022. In his brief stint with the Bears and subsequently the Dolphins, Claypool struggled to make a substantial impact, catching only eight of 21 targets.
Despite his recent struggles, Claypool earned praise during spring practices with the Buffalo Bills. "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."
The uncertainty surrounding Claypool's injury and recovery remains a significant point of concern for the Bills. McDermott acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries but expressed optimism about Claypool's potential return. "And I know he's fighting like crazy to get back, and we're anxious to have him back," he added.
In a surprising twist, the Buffalo Bills traded Stefon Diggs to Houston, indicating a possible reshuffling of their receiving corps. This development further emphasizes the importance of Claypool's potential return and contributions to the team's offensive strategy.
For now, the football community eagerly watches as these former Steelers navigate their respective paths. JuJu Smith-Schuster searches for a new team, Martavis Bryant aims to make a triumphant return with the Commanders, and Chase Claypool battles through injury in hopes of returning stronger than ever. Their journeys serve as reminders of the ever-changing landscape of the NFL, where resilience and adaptability remain crucial for success.