Bears wide receiver Chase Claypool has been the subject of criticism this week after his lackluster effort in the team’s Week 1 loss to the Packers. He was targeted twice and had zero catches.
Head coach Matt Eberflus told reporters this week that he met with Claypool after Sunday’s game about his effort blocking on the perimeter, which contributed to some unsuccessful screen plays.
When asked about the possibility of Claypool being inactive for Week 2, Eberflus said: “We’re looking at all possibilities right now,” an indication that the idea of benching him was on the table.
Well, it sounds like the Bears have made their decision, as Claypool will be active for today’s game against the Buccaneers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Bears’ WR Chase Claypool, whose effort level during Chicago’s opening-day loss to Green Bay drew questions and criticism, will be active for today’s game vs. the Buccaneers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 17, 2023
Quarterback Justin Fields was asked about how to get Claypool back on track, and he believes it’s a mentality thing.
“Just keep going at it,” Fields said earlier this week. “I think the biggest thing is just having that same mentality as he did in camp and just keep working hard every day and just keep going.”
We’ll see if Claypool can indeed bounce back after a lackluster season opener.