Chase Claypool to remain away from Chicago Bears ahead of Thursday night game vs. Commanders
If you’re looking for Chase Claypool somewhere around the Bears’ practice facility, you’re not going to find him. Chicago head coach Matt Eberflus told ESPN 1000 that the receiver will stay away from the team as it prepares for a Thursday Night Football game against the Commanders.
Claypool, who has been critical about his role in Chicago’s offense, was inactive for the Bears’ game against the Broncos on Sunday. Denver defeated Chicago 31-28.
The Bears acquired Claypool midway through the 2022 season from Pittsburgh. Because of the situation between the receiver and the coaching staff, he could potentially be with a third team in as many years.
Last Friday, Claypool was critical of his role in the offense. When he was asked if he thought he was being utilized in a way that showcased his skills, he paused before saying, “No.”
“Sometimes the things around you either elevate you or you have to adapt to allow you to elevate with them,” Claypool said, per ESPN. “So I’ve just been adapting to the new system and my new role in the system and trying to make the most out of it.”
In 10 games with Chicago, Claypool has totaled just 18 catches on 43 targets. He has 191 receiving yards and a touchdown catch. The receiver accounts for four receptions for 51 yards and a score this season.
The Bears sit at 0-4 during the 2023 season.
Chase Claypool in fourth NFL season
A star at Notre Dame from 2016-19, Claypool was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft by Pittsburgh. He made a huge splash as a rookie, hauling in 62 receptions for 863 yards and nine touchdowns.
For those efforts, Claypool earned PFWA All-Rookie honors. But his production has dipped since that rookie campaign. His first-year receiving totals remain the best of his career. He has totaled just four touchdown catches in the past two-plus seasons.
To be fair, Claypool has played for some anemic offenses. Neither the Steelers nor the Bears are lighting up the scoreboard. So, perhaps his frustrations have some merit.
The Bears now have a decision to make regarding the receiver. But if the team wants Claypool to stay at home for consecutive games, that seems to be an indication the team wants to move on.
Chicago travels to Washington for the Thursday Night Football showdown against the Commanders this week. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET with coverage on Amazon Prime Video.