Why Bears WR Chase Claypool wasn’t at Soldier Field vs. Broncos

Bears WR Chase Claypool was a healthy scratch against the Broncos, and he noticeably absent on the sideline. Here’s why:

Chicago Bears wide receiver Chase Claypool was a hot topic during Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos — and he didn’t even see the field.

Claypool was a healthy scratch for Sunday’s game against the Broncos, a move that came after Claypool’s comments to the media this week, where he questioned whether the coaching staff was putting him in the best position to succeed.

But unlike the other inactive and injured players, Claypool wasn’t present at Soldier Field for the game, which raised suspicions about his future in Chicago. Especially after a report indicated the Bears are shopping Claypool.

Head coach Matt Eberflus originally told reporters after Sunday’s loss that it was Claypool’s decision not to be at Soldier Field for Sunday’s game. But a Bears official later clarified to reporters that Claypool was asked to stay home by the team.

Quarterback Justin Fields told reporters he found out Claypool was going to be inactive during a team meeting on Saturday, and there wasn’t a reason provided by the coaching staff.

Fields was asked if he still wanted Claypool on the team.

“Do I want him on this team? Of course,” Fields said. “Chase, he’s a weapon. He’s passionate. He just has to work on his display of his emotions. Me and him have had multiple conversations with that.”