In most recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in prime Canadian talent within the NFL. Football is still heavily American dominated and that will likely never change. But an influx in quality Canadian players shows that the sport is having a good influence north of the border. One of these athletes is Pittsburgh Steelers 2020 draft pick: wide receiver Chase Claypool.
Canadian NFL Profile: Wide Receiver Chase Claypool
Background of a Future Star
Born in Abbotsford, B.C on July 7th, 1998, Claypool was a multi-sport athlete in high school. He broke receiving records in double-A football. While his love for basketball was strong, football is where he wanted to make his mark. To garner the attention of American Colleges, Claypool would post his playing highlights on Facebook. He was ranked the 12th best receiver by ESPN 300, the 22nd best by Rivals.com, and 33rd by 247Sports.com. Scout.com had him ranked at the 12th bet tight-end.
After accepting an offer from the University of Notre Dame, he became the Fighting Irish’s number one receiver in his senior year. Claypool finished his college career with 166 receptions of 2,159 yards with 19 touchdowns in 50 games played. He also won the Camping World Bowl MVP against Iowa State and was the recipient of the game ball against Navy. Surprisingly, he went undrafted in the 2020 CHL Draft.
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Draft Projection and Selection
At 6’4 and 238 lbs, Claypool’s scouting reported indicated that he was big, explosive, fast, and physical. He had trouble with consistency and needs to improve his catching hands during and after receptions. Claypool was predicted to go in the second or third round and received a grade of six point three two. His 40-yard dash came in at four point 42 seconds, his bench press completion at 19 reps, his vertical at 40.5, and his broad jump at 126.
The Steelers selected Claypool 49th overall in the 2020 draft, subsequently signing him to a four-year, $6.6 million contract. The team did not have a first-round draft pick, but they made their second-rounder count with a steal of a pick.
Rookie Year Magic
Claypool’s rookie year surprised many as he played as if shot out of a cannon. He played for that number one wide receiver spot hard. Claypool was awarded the Joe Greene Great Performance Award and was selected to the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team. He completed his rookie season with 62 receptions of 873 yards with nine touchdowns. Claypool also rushed for 16 yards with two touchdowns.
One of his biggest moments in his young came when he scored four touchdowns against the Philadelphia Eagles, giving him Offensive Player of the Week Honors. Claypool led all rookies with nine touchdowns. His 62 receptions were the most by a Steelers rookie in team history.
The Future Looks Bright
You can never be certain what the future holds, but there is no reason the Canadian can not improve and get even better than his rookie season. He has all the tools to play that physical and strong Steeler style, and may even end up transitioning to the tight-end position. Do not count out Chase Claypool to continue to break team records and eventually show why he was worthy of a first-round selection.
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