PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Arriving with his new team Wednesday morning, Bears receiver Chase Claypool said he’s glad to be in Chicago because of how he’s now perceived.
“Obviously, they went out and got me, I think that says a lot of what they feel about me,” Claypool said to Chicago media. “I think the opportunity they gave me by picking me up.”
It’s not that he had anything bad to say directly about the Steelers. He said there is no bad blood, being traded is part of the business. Although he did wonder if the Steelers took full advantage of his potential.
“I’m a play-maker and I’m excited to make plays,” Claypool said. “I feel like I didn’t have the full opportunity to show what I can do this year. I think I’ve been able to show that in the past.
I’m excited to be able to gain that trust with Justin (Fields) where he knows if he needs a play he can come to me.”
“Dynamic play-maker is the guy the Bears are getting.”
He’s partially right. The Steelers 2020 second-round pick had three, 100-yard games. Against the Eagles his rookie year he had seven catches for 110 yards and three touchdowns, with another rushing TD. He had a multiple touchdown game against the Bengals and in their next matchup had nine catches for 96 yards. He also had a 130-yard game against Denver his second year.
In eight of his career 39 games, he’s also had two catches or fewer and since his rookie season, he has three receiving touchdowns in his last 25 games.
“I tried a new position this year in the slot, I was outside my first two years,” Claypool said. “It wasn’t quite the best fit, but it wasn’t the worst either. I think it actually helped me with being able to play all three positions on the field now.”
The former Notre Dame receiver believes he provides the Bears with a lot of value. With his 6’4”, 238-pound frame, he feels he’s a good combination with Bears leading receiver Darnell Mooney. He said they will be ‘super-dynamic’ together.
“I just think they are getting a guy that has transitioned himself into a leader throughout the years,” Claypool said. “I’ve had a lot of learning experiences in recent memory. A guy who can lead. A guy who always works hard. A guy who loves to be here, I’m happy to be here.”
An intriguing watch for Steelers fans to see how Claypool performs outside of the Matt Canada offense.