Green Bay is rolling out the welcome mat for a familiar—and intriguing—name at rookie minicamp. Veteran wide receiver Chase Claypool, who hasn't suited up for a regular season game since 2023, is among nine tryout players hoping to catch the Packers' attention.
Selected in the second round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020, Claypool flashed serious promise early in his career. Over his first two seasons, the 6-foot-4, 238-pound target racked up back-to-back 800-yard campaigns and found the end zone 13 times. But the momentum didn't last. After a trade to the Chicago Bears in 2022—one that reportedly beat out Green Bay's own offer—and another move to the Miami Dolphins in 2023, his production faded. He managed just 18 catches in 10 games with Chicago before being dealt again.
Claypool spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons out of the NFL entirely. A brief stint in training camp with the Buffalo Bills last year was cut short by a foot injury, and despite that toe healing, no team signed him ahead of the 2025 season. Now, at just 27 years old, he's looking for a fresh start in Green Bay.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is taking a patient approach. "He's had great film out there. He's been productive and he looks like he's in great shape, and he's big. We'll see how it goes," LaFleur said after Friday's minicamp session.
This tryout comes at a time when Green Bay's receiver room has some openings. The Packers lost Romeo Doubs in free agency and traded Dontayvion Wicks this offseason. General manager Brian Gutekunst brought in veteran Skyy Moore but didn't draft a wideout, instead signing undrafted free agent J. Michael Sturdivant. Claypool's experience and size could make him a compelling option for a 90-man roster spot this summer.
Over 58 career games, Claypool has 153 receptions for 2,044 yards and 12 touchdowns. While his recent years have been rocky, a strong showing at minicamp could be the first step toward a comeback. For now, all eyes are on whether this former standout can rediscover his footing in Packers green.