The Steelers had five teams inquire about trading for receiver Chase Claypool, most offering second-round picks in exchange, but they made the deal with the Chicago Bears to get a better draft pick with an eye toward the future.
More immediately, though, the trade further decimated a position that once was considered a strength. Since the end of last season, the Steelers have lost four of their top five wide receivers, not to mention a coveted rookie draft choice to a season-ending injury.
However, coach Mike Tomlin said he doesn’t expect the trade of Claypool, a second-round draft pick in 2020, to alter the focus of the passing game. He said the Steelers made the trade because they were “comfortable” with the depth at the position and that Claypool’s absence would open up areas of the field for other players.
