The Pittsburgh Steelers have an intriguing group of young receivers, led by third year pro JuJu Smith-Schuster. He's racked up nearly 3,000 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns through his first three NFL seasons.

Along with Smith-Schuster, the team will rely on 24-year olds Diontae Johnson and James Washington. Based on reports from Steelers training camp, though, an enticing rookie may move up the receiving depth chart sooner than expected.

Article Continues Below
More Pittsburgh Steelers News
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) warms up before an NFL football matchup
Steelers coach speaks up on Aaron Rodgers’ blunt approach on WRsAlex House ·
Pittsburgh Pirates former right fielder and 1978 MVP Dave Parker looks on during a ceremony honoring the 1979 World Series team before the Pirates host the Atlanta Braves at PNC Park.
Steelers send message to Pirates after Dave Parker’s deathAbdullah Imran ·
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin answers questions from the medianduring the NFL Annual League Meeting at The Breakers.
Mike Tomlin’s leadership put into question by Steelers legendSteve Silverman ·
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on in the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium.
Steelers rumors: NFL Insider hints at Mike Tomlin’s firing amid desperationBenedetto Vitale ·
Jan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts after a catch against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
George Pickens replaced by Steelers star at Pittsburgh youth camp he bailed onBen Strauss ·
One mystery player in the middle, Aaron Rodgers, Alex Highsmith around him, Pittsburgh Steelers logo in the background
1 perfect Pittsburgh Steelers move to fill out roster before 2025 training campEnzo Flojo ·

“Chase Claypool. Smith-Schuster said when asked which offensive player has stood out in camp so far.

A young rookie coming in and using his size to ball-out. And that’s what he’s been doing. On the defensive side, that’s a good one… That whole defense is stacked, and their all good. That’s a tough one, man. I think everyone on that side is doing their thing. Every is balling. I don’t see no slacking on that defense.”

The 2020 second-round draft pick has been the talk of Steelers camp—by the media and his teammates. At 6’4” and 238 pounds with a 4.42 speed and a 40.5″ vertical jump, Claypool can go over the top of defenders and blow by them, making him a potentially devastating deep threat for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger—if he can earn the snaps.

Claypool has even got the best of cornerback Joe Haden in practice on a few occasions, and the three-time Pro Bowler praised Claypool's skills.

“He’s had a couple of plays on me in this camp. I’ve lined up against him pretty often. He’s a big, fast receiver. He’s able to adjust to the ball in the air. He hasn’t shown me anything too bad. He’s been able to be a big body, a deep threat with soft hands and can jump up and get it. As long as he stays healthy, I think he’s going to be a problem.

Rookies don't often make a huge impact for Pittsburgh, though Mike Tomlin may have to break from tradition and find ample time for Claypool—despite the lack of preseason games and typical offseason programs.