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Former Pittsburgh Steelers Star Chase Claypool Attempting NFL Comeback

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jul 5, 2025 5:58 PM ET

Despite missing the entire 2024 NFL season, former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool isn't ready to call it a career.

Claypool started his NFL career in 2020 when the Steelers selected him with the 49th overall pick. The Notre Dame product played well as a rookie, hauling in 62 passes for 873 yards and nine touchdowns. Less than two years later though, he was traded to the Chicago Bears.

The Bears acquired Claypool with the hope he'd lead their wide receiver room. However, he finished his time in Chicago with just 191 receiving yards and one touchdown.

Last offseason, Claypool signed a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills. Unfortunately, his season ended in August due to a toe injury.

On Friday, Claypool announced that he's attempting an NFL comeback this offseason. He believes he can contribute to a team as early as this fall.

"I tore a ligament and a tendon in my second toe and have been rehabbing, working out, and recovering every day for the past year," Claypool wrote on Instagram. "I am back to being the strongest and fastest I’ve ever been and couldn’t be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves. I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what’s been suppressed these last two years."

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 07: Chase Claypool #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts following a play during the second quarter of their game against the Washington Football Team at Heinz Field on December 07, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

For what it's worth, Claypool expressed his gratitude for Josh Allen, Sean McDermott and the Bills in his social media post.

"I want to thank Josh for taking me in the way he did, AJ and Greg for showing me the kindness they did, the entire receiver room who made me feel like family, the O-line for having my back always, and my receiver coach, who never failed to check on me throughout this entire last year — sending me motivational videos and helping me get past what I was going through. As well as a thank you to Coach McDermott and Beane for affording me the opportunity. It was a pleasure."

Maybe the Bills will consider giving Claypool a second chance this summer.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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