3 reasons Chase Claypool should replace JuJu in the slot for Steelers
By Tommy Jaggi
The Steelers will be without JuJu Smith-Schuster for the remainder of the season, but here’s why Chase Claypool should kick inside to the slot.
Nobody ever wants to see a player like JuJu Smith-Schuster go down for the season. In addition to being a fan favorite thanks to his lovable personality, the young receiver was as tough as nails over the middle of the field and arguably the most reliable option for Ben Roethlisberger on third downs.
Unfortunately, the Steelers are going to have to make do without his services. The good news is that they have another player who could fill the role in the slot — and dare I say, he might be an even better option than JuJu in this role. Here are three reasons Chase Claypool should man JuJu’s role as the slot receiver for Pittsburgh:
Ben and Claypool have had connection issues on the outside
It’s no secret to anyone who has been watching this year that Big Ben and Claypool haven’t always been on the same page. At times, the fault is on the receiver as he fails to adjust to the ball or lets the defender jar it loose. Other times, Roethlisberger will underthrow him and Claypool will have to try to fight back through traffic to make a play.
Regardless of the reason, Ben has not been efficient throwing to Claypool outside the hashes this year. While the young receiver has been excellent at drawing pass interference calls, he would immediately become a more efficient option for his aging quarterback if moved inside.