Clarifying NFL rule that Bills Mafia is discussing after multiple season-ending injuries

There seems to be some confusion taking place as to whether or not wide receiver Chase Claypool and quarterback Shane Buechele, who were placed on IR today, will be eligible to return this season. Let's look into the new rules surrounding roster construction and clear this up.

Chase Claypool and Shane Buechele are not eligible to return

Where the confusion is stemming from is a new rule that was passed in March. The Competition Committee amended Article XVII, Section 17.16(C) to read:

"to permit each club to place a maximum of two players who are placed on an applicable Reserve List on the business day of the final roster reduction to be designated for return. Such players will immediately count as two of the club’s total designations."

Players being place on IR during the preseason has always been an option, and those players have never been eligible to return during the season. This new rule, which allows a maximum of two players who are placed on IR on the business day of final roster reductions can be designated to return.

For Claypool and Buechele, that will not be the case. They have been placed on season-ending IR.

Claypool was facing an uphill battle to make the roster

Claypool was already at risk of being left off the 53-man roster with his offseason performance, despite the coaching staff being excited about the upside that he would bring to the roster. Missing valuable time in training camp, it was apparent that Claypool was running the risk of being lapped by other players on the roster.

His lack of availability throughout the offseason process has been well-documented, and had him trailing the rest of the position group for one of likely six wide receivers to make the roster.

Now, behind the starting three of Keon Coleman , Khalil Shakir , and Curtis Samuel , the wide receivers battling for a roster spot will consist of the struggling Marquez Valdes-Scantling , Tyrel Shavers, fan-favorite Mack Hollins, Justin Shorter, and recently-signed Damiere Byrd and Deon Cain, who are competing primarily as returners.

Related: Bills’ Josh Allen and Sean McDermott send entire team a clear message after preseason blowout loss

Follow along all season for all the latest Buffalo Bills news. You can also find me on X @JonHelmkamp .