Trading for Chase Claypool was a surprise by the Chicago Bears. It was acknowledged they desperately needed wide receiver help for Justin Fields, but giving up a 2nd round pick for him felt steep. That was particularly true, knowing the character concerns many had with him during his inconsistent time in Pittsburgh. GM Ryan Poles remained confident things could work out. Claypool had every reason to be motivated. The Steelers had given up on him. He’d be guaranteed more targets in Chicago. Most importantly, it was getting close to time for a contract extension.
What followed was arguably the biggest meltdown any Bears trade acquisition has ever endured. In 10 games, Claypool was targeted 43 times. He made only 18 catches for 191 yards and a touchdown. Aside from not making the most of his opportunities, he also earned a reputation for lazy blocking. His hustle and attention to detail were called into question. Then, to put the cherry on top, he singled out the coaches for utilizing him to the best of his abilities. It was hardly a shock when the Bears chose to deactivate him last Sunday against Denver. Now, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, it’s pretty much a foregone conclusion he’s done in Chicago.
“The Bears got a poor investment return on Claypool, who was benched after four catches through the first three games. Chicago made him inactive in Week 4, two days after he told reporters he was not being utilized correctly. Perhaps Chicago can salvage a late-round pick to send Claypool to his third team in two years. But teams I’ve talked to believe the Bears will end up releasing him, which would mean he’d outstayed his welcome in two spots (Chicago and Pittsburgh). Perhaps Claypool’s speed/size combination will reignite his career somewhere.”
Chase Claypool only has himself to blame.
Muhsin Muhammad famously said Chicago is where receivers go to die. That is true sometimes. However, Claypool can’t make that argument. The Bears gave him every opportunity to become a key part of their offense. All they asked was that he give them 100%. Based on tape performance, he wouldn’t provide it. Claypool has long tried to skate by on his natural talent. That won’t fly in the NFL. Nothing about his play suggests a desire to be great. He’s in it for the money and the fame.
That unwillingness to go all out on every player will cost him millions of dollars. There is no way another team will offer him significant money after getting run out of two organizations in the space of a year. Chase Claypool may go down as one of the biggest disappointments of the past decade. His career started with such promise. However, he never managed to take the next step. The Bears proved they were fine without him against Denver. Wherever he ends up next likely won’t be as welcoming.
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