Erratic free-agent wide receiver signs with AFC contender

Chase Claypool has had a disappointing NFL career since he was drafted in the second round four years ago, but the wide receiver has been given yet another opportunity to prove himself.

The Buffalo Bills announced on Friday that they have signed Claypool to a one-year contract.

Claypool had been a free agent since his rookie contract expired in March. There were rumors that he could make a drastic career move if no NFL team wanted to sign him, but the Bills are betting on his upside.

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Claypool, a former star at Notre Dame, in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He had an outstanding rookie season with 62 catches for 873 yards and nine touchdowns. Claypool was also productive in his second year with 59 receptions for 860 yards and two scores, but it was all downhill from there.

The Steelers traded Claypool to the Chicago Bears midway through the 2022 season. Judging by some comments he made before the trade, it is safe to say that was an unexpected development for him.

Claypool was a non-factor for the Bears in 2022 before being traded to the Miami Dolphins midway through last season. He caught four passes for 26 yards in nine games with the Dolphins.

The Bills have rebuilt their wide receiver depth chart after trading Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans and losing Gabe Davis in free agency. They drafted former Florida State star Keon Coleman early in the second round and signed Mack Hollins in March. If Claypool plays to his potential, he should have a legitimate chance to make the roster in Buffalo.