The Chicago Bears have set their receiving corps for 2023. D.J. Moore headlines the list with Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool right behind him. It is arguably the most talented trio of receivers the team has had in a decade. Justin Fields should be happy. Unfortunately, it might not last long. Both Claypool and Mooney sit in the final year of their respective rookie contracts. They seek lucrative extensions. While it’s always possible the Bears find a way to pay both, that seems unlikely. They’re already paying Moore $20 million per year. Organizations don’t typically have three highly-paid receivers.
That means GM Ryan Poles will have to decide between Claypool or Mooney when the season ends. Maybe they’ll make it easy for him. One will play well, and one won’t (or will get hurt). However, there is a chance both produce enough to justify a new deal. At that point, Poles will have to make a choice on who to keep. This is where Fields’ influence may come into play. Based on a recent interview with quarterback trainer Quincy Avery, Fields has a significant bias in this situation that could prove crucial.
That answer by Justin Fields is telling.
His friendship with Mooney runs deep. The two produced well together over the past couple of seasons. Their connection on and off the field is obvious. Claypool has no such bond to fall back on. That means if he and Mooney end up posting similar numbers this season, the Bears are almost certain to give the extension to the latter. That means Claypool is under far more pressure to produce this year. He already has a cloud hanging over him from his time in Pittsburgh. People have waited on his potential for what feels like long enough.
Make no mistake. Justin Fields isn’t going to play favorites. He will work hard to get everybody the football as much as possible. It’s up to Claypool to make the most of his opportunities. Moore isn’t going anywhere. The Bears have Velus Jones and Tyler Scott waiting in the wings. Mooney has far more clout in the organization at this point. Poles has continued to take heat from the media without complaint over the trade to acquire him. Draft status won’t save him anymore. It’s time to put up or shut up.
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