When Justin Fields spoke out last week about the coaching being an issue with his poor start to 2023, it was the first real red flag that there was unrest in the locker room. While the Chicago Bears quarterback tried to walk those comments back, it was too late. Everybody knew that was a clear sign he wasn't happy with offensive coordinator Luke Getsy or the rest of the staff. As the losses continue to mount, it felt almost inevitable that somebody else would speak out. True to form, Chase Claypool became that man.
He was asked point blank in the locker room on Friday whether he felt the Bears were utilizing him to the best of his. Here was his response.
There isn't any nuance at all in that statement. Claypool made it abundantly clear that he isn't happy with how he's been used through the first three games. Saying as much to the media was going to create a ruckus. Either he wasn't thinking when he said the words, or he knew exactly what he was doing. It is becoming clear that head coach Matt Eberflus has lost control of this team. There is no discipline on or off the field.
Chase Claypool needs to take ownership as well.
He talks about the Bears not using him right. To a certain extent, this is true. Getsy doesn't seem to have a firm grasp on how to get the most out of his personnel. His scheming is questioned constantly by former players. That said, it's not like Claypool hasn't had chances. He is the second-most targeted receiver on the team through three games. Justin Fields has thrown his way 14 times. The receiver caught four of those passes. Four. That speaks to a player who isn't winning enough of his battles.
Let's not even bother mentioning his subpar blocking efforts. So while his comment might come from a place of frustration with the coaches, it's not like he can say he hasn't gotten opportunities. There is no denying that Chase Claypool is fast becoming one of the worst trades engineered by the Bears in the past few decades. They gave up a 2nd round pick for him last year. In ten games, he has 191 yards and one touchdown. Good receivers should be able to make plays even in tough circumstances. I think we're finding out everything we need to know about him.
