PFF names the Bears' X-Factor for 2023 season
The Chicago Bears have used the offseason to stack talent at key positions throughout their roster. While there has been an influx of new impact players, the Bear that could really set the team apart in the NFC North will be entering his second year in Chicago. Chicago has prioritized pass-catchers this offseason as GM […]
The Chicago Bears have used the offseason to stack talent at key positions throughout their roster. While there has been an influx of new impact players, the Bear that could really set the team apart in the NFC North will be entering his second year in Chicago.
Chicago has prioritized pass-catchers this offseason as GM Ryan Poles is doing all that he can in order to build a strong supporting cast for QB Justin Fields. The wide receiver position is the position group that will play the biggest role in helping Fields take a major leap in his third year in the league.
Many will point to D.J. Moore as a player Chicago will lean on, and they’re right. But in order for Moore to maximize his production, another wideout must emerge as a threat to defensive coordinators.
That player is Chase Claypool.
Chicago didn’t receive exciting early returns on their investment after trading a second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for Claypool last season.
Pro Football Focus recently released an article naming Claypool as the Bears’ X-Factor entering the 2023 season.
From PFF: "The Bears swiped D.J. Moore from the Panthers, and Darnell Mooney is very good when healthy. They sent a high second-round pick to Pittsburgh for Claypool midseason, and so far it has not paid dividends. Midseason arrivals are tough, but Claypool managed just 140 yards in seven games for Chicago. Justin Fields is a deep-ball specialist, and Claypool has the requisite size and speed to excel vertically."
Claypool has shown flashes during his first three seasons of becoming a dynamic threat in the passing game. He combined for 1,733 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns in his first two years with the Steelers before his production tailed off in 2022.
But with the right people around him, players and coaches included, there is no reason why Claypool can’t return to form in 2023. If Chicago truly plans to emerge as a legitimate contender in the NFC North, Claypool must prove that he can be counted on consistently.
