The Chicago Bears are trading for Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Chase Claypool, giving quarterback Justin Fields a playmaker on offense.
General manager Ryan Poles is prioritizing Fields with this move, which is reason enough to love the trade. But then there’s the fact that Chicago landed Claypool over a hated, divisional rival.
According to Josina Anderson, “it was looking like Green Bay was potentially going to offer the best deal for Chase (Claypool).” Just a few hours later, the Bears sweetened their deal and essentially stole Claypool from their rivals.
As of 8am this morning I'm told "it was looking like Green Bay was potentially going to offer the best deal for Chase (Claypool)," per league source. Obviously the #Bears have swooped in and nabbed the #Steelers WR.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) November 1, 2022
According to Andrew Filliponni of 93.7 The Fan, the Packers also offered a second-round pick for Claypool.
The Packers have lost four straight games (sitting at 3-5) and have been struggling, particularly on offense with their underwhelming group of wideouts.
Green Bay was mentioned as a likely landing spot for Claypool, with Aaron Rodgers in need of help at receiver. While the Packers were interested in Claypool, Chicago swooped in with a better offer.
Sure, it’s fair to argue that Poles overpaid for Claypool. The Bears sent their own 2023 second-round pick, which is expected to be low, rather than the one acquired from the Baltimore Ravens for Roquan Smith. But it’s the kind of move that immediately helps Fields and this passing game.
Not to mention, the Bears preventing Claypool from landing with the Packers makes it all the sweeter.
