Steelers Outlook: Pro comparisons for WR Chase Claypool

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TAMPA, FL – DECEMBER 06: Vincent Jackson #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Raymond James Stadium on December 6, 2015 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images) /

High-end NFL comparison: Vincent Jackson

Let me start by saying that the Calvin Johnson comparisons to Chase Claypool are totally unfair to him. Though they share similar size and athletic metrics, Johnson was one of the best receivers to play the game in my lifetime, and that’s far to rich for a high-end comparison.

A good compromise, however, is longtime Chargers and Buccaneers receiver, Vincent Jackson. Jackson was a big-bodied receiver and an incredibly gifted athlete. Though he mainly played outside the hashes, he used his long speed, length, and physicality to rise over top of defenders and make catches down the field.

Jackson had the body control to handle dirty work over the middle and the speed to beat defenders deep down the field (as evidenced by his 16.8 yards per reception in his career). He played 12 seasons in the NFL, managed 6 seasons of over 1,000 yards, and earned 3 Pro Bowls. If Claypool can do anything close to this, that would be an incredible pick.

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