Chase Claypool's career isn't in the best spot at present, but it seems like the wideout is trying to get back on track. The former Pittsburgh Steeler is currently signed with the Buffalo Bills, and he's been making his presence felt at the team's 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,” New York Upstate reporter Matt Parino said, per Steelers Now's Chris Ward. “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.”

Fresh off a strong senior season with Notre Dame, Claypool was selected by the Steelers as the 49th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft. Immediately, he cemented himself as the team's number two receiver behind Diontae Johnson. During the 2020 and 2021 seasons (combined), Claypool amassed 1,733 receiving yards and 11 receiving touchdowns. He also ran the ball for two additional scores.

He was traded to the Chicago Bears in 2022, where his career arguably started to decline. Claypool had a falling out with the Bears due to issues surrounding his attitude and effort. This resulted in the wideout playing just 10 games for Chicago, where he tallied 191 yards and a touchdown.

In October of 2023, Claypool was shipped to the Miami Dolphins, where he only saw action in nine games and caught the ball four times.

Chase Claypool starts fresh with the Bills

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With another door open for redemption, Parino's comments seem to hint that the wideout is looking to bounce back and find his footing in the league again. It won't be easy, but looking at the Bills' receivers, Claypool might just have a chance.

Steffon Diggs and Gabe Davis aren't with Buffalo anymore, so it's going to be a summer battle for the team's starting spots. If Claypool is indeed picked for the 53-man roster, he'll be competing against several other newcomers such as rookie Keon Coleman, holdover Khalil Shakir, and former Washington Commander Curtis Samuel. Other receivers  signed by the Bills include Mack Hollins and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Will it be a comeback story for Chase Claypool? That remains to be seen, but any fan who followed the Steelers years ago knows what the 6-foot-4 receiver is capable of. He's just 25 years old, meaning that his performances alongside Diontae Johnson and Big Ben can still be replicated with the right external conditions and an adjusted mindset. And looking at his recent comments, it seems like Claypool is indeed making the most out of his new opportunity.

“Buffalo gives me an opportunity to work as hard as I can and make the people around me proud,” Claypool said. “
I understand my situation. I understand any opportunity I have to help the team win, I need to jump on that opportunity.”