Chase Claypool among 20 players with most to lose, gain from 2023 NFL Draft

When the Chicago Bears traded for wide receiver Chase Claypool at the 2022 trade deadline, it appeared like a good decision by GM Ryan Poles. But after the former Pittsburgh Steeler totaled just 14 catches over the final seven games, questions arose about his long-term fit in Chicago.

Indeed, it’s unfair to pass judgment on Claypool after a midseason trade. He was thrust into one of the NFL’s most unproductive passing offenses. Expecting him to produce like a WR1 in an offense still figuring out its passing attack never made sense. But that doesn’t mean expectations won’t be high for the fourth-year wideout in 2023.

Chase Claypool is entering the final year of his rookie contract. He’ll set himself up for a big payday if he enjoys a productive 2023 season. The Chicago Bears will likely meet his contract demands if he plays well, too. Poles made the trade knowing a second contract was right around the corner. It’d be foolish to let Claypool walk if he turns into a 1,000-yard guy.

It would be equally foolish for the Bears to assume Claypool will become that guy. It’s why DJ Moore was such a critical acquisition in the trade with the Carolina Panthers. And it’s why adding a rookie from the 2023 NFL Draft would make sense.

Chase Claypool’s future with Chicago Bears depends on a breakout 2023 season

According to Pro Football Focus, Chase Claypool is one of 20 players with the most to gain — and lose — from the 2023 draft.

“Over seven weeks to close out the season in Chicago, Claypool recorded just 14 receptions on 28 targets for 140 yards, earning a 61.7 receiving grade,” PFF’s Brad Spielberger wrote. “An adjustment period while learning a new playbook is understandable, and getting a full offseason to develop chemistry with quarterback Justin Fields could go a long way, but 2023 looks to be a major prove-it year for the wideout.

“With Claypool and Darnell Mooney both entering contract years, and with the Bears acquiring a highly-paid wide receiver in D.J. Moore via their trade down to No. 9 overall with the Carolina Panthers, could they look to replace one or both of them in 2024 with a draft pick this year?”

I’d be stunned if the Chicago Bears don’t select a receiver in the NFL Draft. This year’s draft class is deep at the position. It will offer Poles and coach Matt Eberflus a starting-quality player in the second and even third rounds.

The top of the Bears” wide receiver depth chart is set with Moore, Claypool, and Mooney. After that, it’s anyone’s guess. Velus Jones Jr. will get a chance to be on the gameday roster. Equanimeous St. Brown offers value as a run blocker and special-teamer. But neither receiver profiles as a potential replacement for Claypool or Mooney if one or both depart in free agency in 2024.

Several quality WRs will appeal to Bears on Day 2 of 2023 NFL Draft

There’s a large contingent of Chicago Bears fans who hope the team selects Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the first round. And while I’d be fine with that decision, too, I doubt Poles will prioritize wide receiver over the offensive line.

That pushes receiver into Day 2, where prospects like Jalin Hyatt (Tennessee), Josh Downs (UNC), Cedric Tillman (Tennessee), and Rashee Rice (SMU) should all be on the board. There’s a chance that some wideouts who appear in first-round mock drafts could fall, too.

Quentin Johnston (TCU) is beginning to slide. Boston College’s Zay Flowers has first-round talent, but teams may decide to wait on him because of his size concerns.

It wouldn’t surprise me if only two receivers are selected in the first round. If that happens, and the Chicago Bears decide to invest one of their second-round picks on a pass-catcher, Chase Claypool’s future will get murkier. Darnell Mooney’s will too.