Chase Claypool on his NFL talent: I'm a top-three receiver

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Chase Claypool made a bold claim about his skills in a recent interview, showing his self-confidence. In an in-depth interview with I Am Athlete, the former Notre Dame star explained that he believes he’s not like other receivers in the NFL — that he’s a top-three receiver in the entire league.

Chase Claypool on being a top receiver

The NFL is full of players who feel that they’re the best players on the field — especially at the wide receiver position. Claypool’s entering his third year as a pro this season and spoke about his growth as a player, before making a bold claim about his own talent.

“I’m going to say, my second year, I was a better player than I was my first year,” said Claypool. “The plays just didn’t work out, right? Some of the plays just didn’t go my way. I didn’t make some plays I need to make. But as a football player, understanding the game, knowing what to do, knowing where to be, I was better. So I’m going to be better this year.

“And just like you said, understanding I’m not normal — I feel that way when I’m on the field. I know for a fact I am not like the rest of the guys in the NFL. I know I’m a top-five receiver. I know I’m a top-three receiver.”

His comments drew criticism from around the league as he hasn’t broke the 900-yard mark in either of his first two seasons, but confidence is a big part of being able to achieve great things — at least that’s what Steelers fans hope.

Last season, Claypool seemed to regress a bit in his production after being named to the 2020 NFL All-Rookie Team. He caught three less passes as a full starter for Pittsburgh for 13 less yards, as well as only two touchdowns on the season compared to nine as a rookie. He finished 35th in receiving yards in the NFL and 54th in total receptions last year.