Add NFL Network’s Kyle Brandt to the rapidly growing list of those getting frustrated with Chicago Bears’ wide receiver Chase Claypool.
The fourth-year wideout was non-existent in the Bears’ 38-20 blowout loss at home to the archrival Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Claypool was targeted twice but had zero catches on the day, though he briefly grabbed the spotlight with a hysterical flop:
Speaking on Monday’s episode of “Good Morning Football” on NFL Network, Brandt went on a massive rant against Claypool. Brandt didn’t actually mention his name, but it’s very obvious who he’s talking about:
“I don’t know what he’s doing out there, he certainly doesn’t look like he wants to be out there. He’s a name…he’s a guy you know, I’m not going to mention his name…I don’t have to…I don’t know what this player’s doing, but I know he’s not trying. And I don’t know if he’s gonna be out there much longer.”
Claypool got off to a promising start with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020 and 2021, exceeding the 50-catch and 800-yard marks in each of his first two seasons. Claypool’s nine TD receptions in his rookie year helped Pittsburgh win its first AFC North division title in three years.
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But the Canadian kid quickly fell out of favor in Pittsburgh and was traded to Chicago ahead of last year’s deadline. The fresh start didn’t benefit Claypool whatsoever, as he finished with only 14 catches for 140 yards and zero touchdowns.
2023 is the final season on Claypool’s rookie contract, so the clock is ticking on the 25-year-old potentially setting himself up for a nice payday. If Claypool’s struggles continue in the Windy City, there’s a good chance he’ll be traded ahead of the deadline.
The Bears will try to rebound from an ugly loss when they visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium this Sunday.
