Chase Claypool’s Uncertain Future with the Bills: Will He Make the Roster, or Is a New Team on the Horizon?
Chase Claypool’s journey in the NFL has been a rollercoaster ride. After a promising start to his career with back-to-back 800+ yard seasons in 2020 and 2021, the wide receiver has struggled to replicate that early success. Now, as the preseason progresses, Claypool finds himself in a precarious position with the Buffalo Bills, facing the very real possibility of not making the final 53-man roster.
Claypool’s Situation with the Bills
When the Bills signed Claypool, they knew they were taking a calculated gamble. His deal was structured as a low-risk, high-reward opportunity, with a modest $25,000 signing bonus and a minimum base salary. The team was well aware of his potential upside but also understood the concerns surrounding his recent performance and injury history.
Unfortunately, the gamble has yet to pay off. Claypool has been sidelined for the past two weeks with a foot injury, missing valuable time to make an impression during training camp. The injury has him falling in the depth chart and has cast doubt on his ability to secure a spot on the Bills’ final roster.
Potential Landing Spots if He’s Cut
If the Bills ultimately decide to part ways with Claypool, several teams could be interested in adding the former Notre Dame standout to their roster. Here are a few potential landing spots:
- Potential Landing Spots for Chase Claypool if Cut by the Bills
- 1. Green Bay Packers: The Packers are undergoing a significant transition with the commitment of Jordan Love as their franchise quarterback. In this period of change, the team could benefit from adding a big-bodied receiver like Chase Claypool. His 6’4″ frame and athleticism make him an ideal target, particularly in the red zone, where size and strength are critical. For a young quarterback like Love, having a reliable, physically imposing receiver could help ease the transition and provide a security blanket in crucial situations. Claypool’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches could complement the Packers’ existing receiving corps, giving Love a versatile and dynamic weapon as he develops in the starting role.
- 2. New England Patriots: The Patriots have been on the hunt for consistent playmakers at the wide receiver position for some time. After not landing 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk the team should pivot to Chase Claypool. His experience in the league could provide a valuable presence in the locker room, helping to mentor younger receivers and contribute to the development of the Patriots passing game. If Claypool can recapture the form that made him a standout in his first two seasons, he could be a key piece in New England’s offensive strategy.
- 3. Carolina Panthers: With Bryce Young at the helm, the Carolina Panthers are building for the future, and adding a veteran presence like Chase Claypool could be a wise move. Claypool’s experience and physical attributes could provide a steadying influence on the receiving group.
- 4. Kansas City Chiefs: The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, are always on the lookout for offensive talent to complement their explosive passing game. Chase Claypool could be an intriguing addition to this already potent offense. In Kansas City, Claypool would have the opportunity to play alongside some of the NFL’s top playmakers, benefiting from Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and Reid’s creative offensive schemes. Claypool’s size and athleticism could make him a formidable red-zone target and a deep threat in an offense that thrives on big plays. Under Reid’s guidance, Claypool could find the consistency that’s been lacking in recent years, potentially revitalizing his career and becoming a key contributor in one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.