The Pittsburgh Steelers traded Chase Claypool to the Chicago Bears for a second-round draft pick. Here is how the fans are responding to Claypool’s exit.
Chase Claypool flashed his size, speed, and talent in his rookie season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. But a hopeful rookie season did not carry over in the years to follow. While fans have seen a few glimmers of what once was, the Claypool experiment came to a conclusion just hours before the NFL’s trade deadline.
The Steelers received a second-round draft pick from the Chicago Bears in return for their talented receiver. This trade signals the end of an era in a way. The Steelers have shifted their focus from remaining competitive now to building up for their future.
With an array of emotions, fans shared their thoughts on the trade.
The happy Steelers trade tweets
While the news disheartened some fans, others were excited about the trade. Not necessarily overjoyed to see Claypool leave, but encouraged by the potential of what a second-round pick can do for a team in the middle of a rebuild.
Great move by Steelers!
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) November 1, 2022
Fans were excited because they realized that the Steelers had changed their ways and became more active at the trade deadline.
Omar Khan said this ain’t your daddy’s Steelers!
— Zachary Smith (@ZacharySmithPGH) November 1, 2022
Other fans were excited about what this trade means for the team moving forward. This trade provides evidence of a brighter tomorrow for this team.
A 2nd rounder for Chase Claypool is a good move.
— Donny Football (@DonChed54) November 1, 2022
The trade offer was too good to turn down, considering Amari Cooper was traded for just a fifth-round draft pick.
Gotta give the Steelers credit for recognizing they suck and are gonna need serious amo for the draft
— Zac Celedonia (@ZeFlashNFL) November 1, 2022
Comparing this trade yet again, one tweet gave further proof that the Steelers got a great return on their investment.
Good point by my guy @BuckleUpBaby (who has privacy settings on that won't let me RT him)...
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) November 1, 2022
The Steelers got more back for Chase Claypool than they did for Antonio Brown
The Sad Steelers trade tweets
The Claypool trade news hit differently for his strongest supporters. Despite the outrageous compensation, his fans in Pittsburgh stuck by his side despite the ups and downs. Fans loved to root for Claypool and not seeing him in the black and gold is a tough pill to swallow.
I’m super bummer about the Claypool trade. Actually sick over it.
— Melissa (@mdrizzy22) November 1, 2022
Many somber tweets surfaced on the timeline as fans digested the news.
So long Chase…it was fun while it lasted, you will be missed 🖤💛 pic.twitter.com/ELUPPvaIny
— lisa 🖤💛✌🏻😇 (@crliss21) November 1, 2022
Many fans recognized Claypool’s strengths, which he didn’t showcase consistently during his time with the Steelers.
Honestly, kinda stinks to see Chase Claypool go. They don't make many with that height/weight/speed. He just couldn't put it all together after his rookie season.
— Josh Carney (@ByJoshCarney) November 1, 2022
That said, a second rounder is exactly how to kickstart a fast rebuild for the #Steelers. Especially top 40.
Unpopular opinion but I would’ve rather kept Chase than re-sign Diontae 🤷🏼♀️
— Teddy💛 (@Teddy_20) November 1, 2022
Looking into the future
After the Claypool trade, it is evident that the team has its sights set on a rebuild. While they weren’t the biggest sellers at the deadline, they acknowledged that this team needs to head in a different direction. With plenty of the season left, Pittsburgh has the potential to end up in a comfortable position come draft day. Here’s to hoping that the Steelers use their picks to strengthen its offensive line.