Comment from Matt Eberlfus shows why one Bears player shouldn't be judged based on his performance so far this season
Before the trade deadline, the Chicago Bears sent a second-round draft pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for wide receiver Chase Claypool. Claypool, who will be a free agent after the 2023 season, has experienced a slow start in Chicago. The former Notre Dame standout has just 12 receptions for 111 yards in five games so […]
Before the trade deadline, the Chicago Bears sent a second-round draft pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for wide receiver Chase Claypool.
Claypool, who will be a free agent after the 2023 season, has experienced a slow start in Chicago.
The former Notre Dame standout has just 12 receptions for 111 yards in five games so far with the Bears.
Chicago traded for Claypool with the idea that he'll be a long-term answer at wide receiver.
Claypool's slow start, though, isn't exactly inspiring confidence that he'll be an important part of the offense moving forward.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus, however, doesn't seem too concerned about Claypool's slow start.
That's because Eberflus knows it takes a wide receiver more than just a few weeks to completely learn an offense.
Chicago offensive coordinator Luke Getsy echoed Eberflus' sentiments this week.
"When you hear a play call and how quickly that’s absorbed, he’s probably not to where the other guys are because it’s been six months or more," said Getsy. "But as far as knowing what to do and how to do it, I think he’s in pretty good shape to where he can handle most of the offense."
Next season will be the true test for Claypool. That's when the Bears will decide if they want to extend him and make him a long-term part of the offense. This season is essentially like a bonus training camp for Claypool. He's getting his timing down with quarterback Justin Fields and he's learning the offense. Next year, we should see what Claypool can really contribute to this offense.
That's why it's best to reserve judgment on the former second-round draft pick until a year from now.
Featured image via Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports
