Ex-Steelers WR Chase Claypool Eyes NFL Comeback

After stints with Bears and Dolphins, the once-promising receiver hopes to revive his career.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:58am

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and grey, deconstructing the image of a football player in mid-stride, conveying the complexity and uncertainty of an NFL comeback.The fragmented, geometric depiction of a football player in motion captures the challenges and uncertainty of an NFL comeback attempt.Today in Pittsburgh

Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool is attempting an NFL comeback after a rollercoaster few years. Claypool had a promising start with the Steelers in 2020, but his time with the team and subsequent trades to the Bears and Dolphins did not go as planned. Now a free agent, Claypool is posting workout videos on social media as he aims to return to the league and regain his early career success.

Why it matters

Claypool was once considered a rising star in the NFL, so his potential comeback attempt is drawing significant interest. If successful, it could revive his career and provide a feel-good story for football fans. However, the challenges of returning to the league after multiple team changes and injuries make his path forward uncertain.

The details

After a strong rookie season with the Steelers in 2020, Claypool's production declined in 2021 and 2022. He was traded to the Chicago Bears in 2022, but struggled to find his footing on the struggling team. Claypool then had a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins before becoming a free agent. Now, he is posting workout videos on social media, expressing his desire to make an NFL comeback.

  • Claypool had a promising rookie season with the Steelers in 2020.
  • His production declined in 2021 and 2022, leading to a trade to the Bears.
  • Claypool spent a brief time with the Dolphins in 2023 before becoming a free agent.
  • In 2026, Claypool is now posting workout videos as he aims to return to the NFL.

The players

Chase Claypool

A former wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears, and Miami Dolphins who is now a free agent attempting an NFL comeback.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The NFL team that drafted Claypool in 2020 and where he had his most successful season.

Chicago Bears

The team that acquired Claypool via trade in 2022, but he struggled to find success with the struggling franchise.

Miami Dolphins

The team that briefly signed Claypool in 2023 before he became a free agent.

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What they’re saying

“Lovely to be back. Can't wait to show what I can do.”

— Chase Claypool

What’s next

Claypool will look to impress NFL teams during the upcoming offseason with his training and workouts as he aims to secure a roster spot for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Claypool's potential comeback attempt is a testament to his determination and belief in his abilities, but the challenges he has faced in recent years make his path forward uncertain. If successful, his story could inspire others, but he must prove he can regain the form that made him a promising young receiver in the league.