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Steelers: Rookie WR Chase Claypool set to step up in year-one

ByDavid Morneau|
ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 28: Datrone Young #2 of the Iowa State Cyclones defends a pass in the end zone against Chase Claypool #83 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the second half of the Camping World Bowl at Camping World Stadium on December 28, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. Notre Dame defeated Iowa State 33-9. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 28: Datrone Young #2 of the Iowa State Cyclones defends a pass in the end zone against Chase Claypool #83 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the second half of the Camping World Bowl at Camping World Stadium on December 28, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. Notre Dame defeated Iowa State 33-9. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
Steelers: Rookie WR Chase Claypool set to step up in year-one
Steelers: Rookie WR Chase Claypool set to step up in year-one. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)

Has an opportunity for Chase Claypool been created with the Steelers?

As of August 24, popular second-year breakout candidate, Diontae Johnson, has now missed five straight days of practice for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Since teams are not required to produce injury reports, it’s impossible to say the severity. It’s believed to be some sort of calf problem, which would imply a soft tissue injury and could become problematic.

In his absence, second rounder Chase Claypool will see many more opportunities on the outside to solidify a spot in their rotation.  Claypool has had plenty of hurdles to overcome this offseason without any OTAs or minicamps to gain any sort of chemistry and continuity with Ben Roethlisberger.

However, Claypool brings something that this receiving corps needs desperately: size.

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Although this throw is on air, these are the types of catches Claypool will be expected to make in year one. Without looking too much into one clip, you can see the fluidity and body control Claypool possesses in a 6-foot 4, 238 pound frame that runs in the 4.4s.

Claypool may not have top end agility to create separation on certain routes expected for outside receivers yet, but I’d still expect a redzone package, and specific routes the Steelers would feel comfortable in utilizing his skillset. He improved each year at Notre Dame and just turned 22 in the offseason.

Head coach Mike Tomlin had his praises for Claypool saying he has proved he “belongs” on the field in camp. Despite the pandemic, a rookie wide receiver could see an easier avenue to contributing, especially with Claypool’s traits.

With Johnson out for the time being, Claypool’s progression and role will continue to be monitored closely.

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