The Chicago Bears traded a second-round pick for Chase Claypool in 2022 hoping he would recapture the form that made him a standout rookie in 2022. Months later, the Bears’ coaching staff is reportedly realizing why the Pittsburgh Steelers traded him.
Claypool, the 49th pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, began his pro career on a high note. He earned PFWA All-Rookie Team honors, recording 62 receptions for 873 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
- Chase Claypool stats (2022): 46 receptions, 451 receiving yards, 9.8 ypr
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Many thought it would just be the start of a Pro Bowl career. Claypool delivered another 800-yard season in 2021 before his play dropped off last season.
The Steelers coaching staff and several players grew increasingly frustrated with the young wide receiver. It ultimately led to Pittsburgh trading him to Chicago for the 32nd overall pick, which the Steelers used on Joey Porter Jr.
During an appearance on ESPN 1000, Marc Silverman said Claypool isn’t where the Bears want him to be and there are significant concerns with his work ethic.
“All I can tell you is it isn’t trending in a way that the Bears have wanted it to trend in this offseason. I have heard from a few people inside that building that he is not somebody who is very self-motivated. There’s a long way to go. Chase Claypool can change the narrative”
Marc Silverman on Chicago Bears wide receiver Chase Clayppol
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- Chase Claypool contract: $2.993 million salary in 2023, 2024 free agent
Claypool must prove himself in training camp. Chicago acquired DJ Moore to step in as its No. 1 receiver this season and wideout Darnell Mooney is now healthy. The Bears are also very high on rookie Tyler Scott, a 2023 fourth-round pick who is expected to play a role in the offense as a vertical threat this season.
Chicago was counting on Claypool to show up for OTAs and minicamp in great shape, showing the dedication required to take advantage of his physical talent.
Instead, based on this report, Claypool will enter training camp needing to prove himself. If he makes the commitment the Bears want to see, Chicago’s receiving corps will be far better than it has been in several years.