Steelers look to Rookie WR to help get out of offensive slump

by Crimsion | 4 years ago | 2 Comments

The Pittsburgh Steelers came into the 2020 SFL season with high hopes, getting back their veteran signal caller in Ben Roethlisberger to pair with their young receiving core.

Of course injury concerns were at the front of their minds with this team being unable to remain healthy for a full year on the offensive end, and while the bug bit, Pittsburgh was prepared this time around. After losing starting runningback James Conner earlier in the season the Steelers' offensive attack somehow stalled out more so than it already had.

Unfortunately for them they will now be without one of their core pieces in James Washington, who suffered a broken rib in a 34-24 victory over the Bengals, leaving more targets up for grabs. The 3rd year man out of Oklahoma State produced 23 catches, resulting in 339 yards and a single touchdown before his injury, Pittsburgh is now looking to a new face in rookie Chase Claypool, who has shown flashes in camp but hasn't had a chance to prove himself just yet.

"It's unfortunate for the team for sure, losing someone like James [Washington]," said Claypool during Thursday's practice. "But I am going to take what he and the guys have shown me so far this year and put it to good use."

The former Notre Damer has only recorded 3 catches on the season, for a total of 37 yards and a touchdown, however he has also found some work on the ground, picking up a rushing touchdown of his own. Although he'll have his work cut out for him as he steps into a much larger role in a game against the AFC South leading Jacksonville Jaguars.

Could this be the game that pushes Claypool into the conversation of starting moving forward? And if he finds success, only time will tell if this pushes star WR JuJu Smith-Schuster out of the door.