The Chicago Bears made another splash ahead of the NFL’s trade deadline on Tuesday, acquiring receiver Chase Claypool from the Pittsburgh Steelers for their 2023 second-round pick.
Claypool, a former second-round pick out of Notre Dame, caught 62 passes for 873 yards and nine touchdowns in his rookie season with the Steelers. He followed that up with 59 catches for 860 yards and two touchdowns in 2020.
Claypool is a big-bodied receiver that provides a vertical threat for quarterback Justin Fields, who’s lacking in the receiver department.
“I am excited about this player,” Poles said. “I’ve really liked the way that our offense is starting to come together and move. I thought it was important to add another impact player for our offense to go along with the guys that we currently have in the receivers room right now.”
The trade for Claypool is a move that shows general manager Ryan Poles is prioritizing Fields’ development. While Chicago paid a hefty price for Claypool, it’s hard to criticize Poles for adding a playmaker to immediately help his young quarterback.
“I like the way Justin is trending,” Poles said. “And I think adding another big body who’s physical, explosive, great leaping ability, can stretch the field but also is violent with the ball in his hands, as well as a blocker, enhances everyone around him.”
Receiver has been a big hole on the roster, where Darnell Mooney is the only proven commodity. There are some intriguing names at the position, including N’Keal Harry and rookie Velus Jones Jr., but Claypool is an immediate upgrade at the position.
“You can never have enough weapons and guys that help your quarterback gain confidence,” Poles said. “I know a lot of the guys are starting to make plays for us. Adding another receiver is going to allow him to continue to grow and gain that confidence.”
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