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Former Steelers WR Chase Claypool Teases 2026 NFL Comeback
The wide receiver posted a video of himself training, signaling a potential return to the league.
Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:39am
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Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool has announced his intention to make an NFL comeback in 2026. Claypool, who was traded from the Steelers to the Bears in 2022 and then to the Dolphins in 2023, posted a video of himself running routes and training, telling the league he's "lovely to be back." Claypool had a standout rookie season with the Steelers in 2020 but has struggled with injuries and trades in recent years. A reunion with the Steelers, who are in need of receiver help, could be in the cards if Claypool can get healthy and prove he still has the talent that made him a second-round pick.
Why it matters
Claypool was once considered a rising star in the NFL, and his potential comeback could be a major storyline for the Steelers and the league as a whole. If he's able to regain his form, it would provide a boost to the Steelers' receiving corps and potentially reignite his career after several injury-plagued seasons.
The details
Claypool was selected by the Steelers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and had a breakout rookie season, recording 889 yards from scrimmage and 11 total touchdowns. However, he was traded to the Bears in 2022 and then to the Dolphins in 2023. After signing with the Bills in 2024, Claypool's season was derailed by a toe injury that ended his year before it began. Now, Claypool is looking to make a comeback and has posted a video of himself training, signaling his intention to return to the NFL in 2026.
- Claypool was traded from the Steelers to the Bears on November 1, 2022.
- Claypool was then traded from the Bears to the Dolphins on October 6, 2023.
- Claypool signed with the Buffalo Bills in May 2024.
- Claypool tore a ligament and tendon in his toe, effectively ending his 2024 season before it began.
- Claypool posted a video of himself training for a potential 2026 NFL comeback in February 2026.
The players
Chase Claypool
A former wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers who was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Claypool had a standout rookie season but has struggled with injuries and trades in recent years, and is now looking to make an NFL comeback in 2026.
Pittsburgh Steelers
An NFL team that drafted Claypool in 2020 and could potentially be interested in a reunion if he is able to make a successful comeback.
What they’re saying
“Lovely to be back.”
— Chase Claypool (Preme Football)
What’s next
If Claypool is able to prove he is healthy and still has the talent that made him a second-round pick, a reunion with the Steelers could be a possibility in 2026 as the team looks to bolster its receiving corps.
The takeaway
Claypool's potential comeback is a compelling storyline that could have major implications for both the player and the Steelers organization. If he is able to regain his form, it would provide a significant boost to the team's receiving options and potentially reignite his career after several injury-plagued seasons.
