Former Bears receiver Chase Claypool’s time in Chicago was nothing short of a disaster. Whether it was a lack of on-field production (and effort) or off-field concerns, Claypool just wasn’t a good fit with the Bears.
Following concerns in the first three games, Chicago benched Claypool for two games before finding a trade partner in the Miami Dolphins. The Bears and Dolphins swapped late-round draft picks in 2025.
During Claypool’s introductory press conference with the Dolphins, he was asked what went wrong in Chicago. And his answer completely lacked accountability.
“I think that when you lose a lot of games in a row, there’s frustration naturally,” Claypool said, via Dolphins Wire. “That’s new for everybody, I’m sure, from the top down. I think just being excited about getting some wins and stuff like that, I think that just comes naturally. Once you start winning, things start getting less frustrating, obviously.”
Claypool’s issues stem beyond his lack of on-field production, which amounted to 18 catches for 191 yards and one touchdown in 10 games. There were some internal issues, including Claypool being difficult in meetings and coaches had trouble getting him to buy into his role on offense, as reported by NBC Sports Chicago.
There’s no doubt that a 14-game losing streak can take a toll. But using it as an excuse for his actions illustrates why Claypool is now with his third team in four years.
It’s certainly an interesting coincidence (or not) that the Bears offense has been at its best without Claypool on the field the past two weeks. It’s allowed for more 12-personnel, which has been a part of Chicago’s new-look identity and success on offense.
The most frustrating thing about the whole thing is the Bears ultimately wasted the No. 32 pick in last year’s draft for a player who never helped elevate the offense. But, as general manager Ryan Poles has learned, sometimes you swing and miss.