The Pittsburgh Steelers offense improved big time during the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft by selecting former Notre Dame Fighting Irish wide receiver Chase Claypool.
Claypool has an interesting story coming from British Columbia. He didn't get a ton of attention from colleges until he started posting videos on Facebook. During his 2019 season with Notre Dame, Claypool was the team's best offensive player in catching 66 passes for 1,037 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Claypool is versatile and the Steelers' options will be endless on how to use him.
Let's break down three bold predictions for Claypool in his rookie season with the Steelers.
3. Lines up the majority of his snaps from the tight end position
There was some concern about Claypool's speed before the combine, which caused some to question if he would be a tight end at the next level.
Claypool answered those questions about the speed by running 4.42 in the 40-yard dash. Even though Claypool has the speed to be a wide receiver, the Steelers are going to line him up inside a lot. Vance McDonald is the only real impact player for the Steelers lining up on the end of the line.
Claypool can use his speed to be a matchup nightmare for linebackers as he works down the field. Putting Claypool at tight end makes the Steelers offense a lot better.
2. Is noticed by everyone around the league for his blocking
Claypool is going to make a big impact on the Steelers, but it's not just going to be because of his pass-catching.
Claypool isn't afraid to get down and dirty with his blocking. In the run game, he has been known to throw a pancake block or two. He is going to do everything in his power to help the team in any way he can, and that will include blocking.
Look for Claypool to spring a few long runs because of his blocking.
1. Has at least 500 yards receiving
Claypool should come in and play right away for the Steelers. He is going to have plenty of chances to catch the ball, which he will take advantage of.
Last season, the leading wide receiver for the Steelers was James Washington, who put up 735 receiving yards. Vance McDonald was the leading tight end in putting up 273 receiving yards.
Look for Claypool to be an impact player right away, and have at least one game where he has over 100 receiving yards. He will finish the year having at least 500 yards receiving and at least four touchdowns.
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