When the Pittsburgh Steelers traded wide receiver, Chase Claypool, to the Chicago Bears in exchange for their second-round pick, there was uncertainty about whether or not the team made the correct decision. Fortunately for the Steelers, the Bears' second-round selection ended up being the #32 overall pick in the entire NFL Draft, essentially a first-round pick. A major win for the team that drafted Claypool 49th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. While it will take years to definitely answer the question of who "won" this trade, there is no denying that the Steelers acquiring an additional second-round pick provides an immense amount of flexibility for Omar Khan and the Steelers' front office during the 2023 NFL Draft.
Credit: SportingNews.com
Former Steelers' WR, Chase Claypool.
Chase Claypool was more than solid during his time in Pittsburgh. He quickly burst onto the scene during his rookie campaign where he hauled in 62 receptions for 873 yards and 11 total touchdowns, including a four-touchdown game against the Philadelphia Eagles. He had another solid season in 2021, recording 59 receptions 860 yards, and two touchdowns.
However, his career with the Steelers seemingly changed in a moment during the 2022 NFL Draft when the team selected George Pickens from Georgia with their second-round selection. Ironically enough, Claypool was the one who announced the pick. Little did he know that after this moment, his role within the Steelers' offense would never be the same again. Pickens quickly overtook Claypool as the team's number-two receiver, forcing Claypool to a role in the slot. While his play in the slot was admirable, the offer of a second round pick from the Bears was just too valuable of an opportunity to pass up.
Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens lines up in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2022 season.
How Does The Additional Second Round Pick Impact The Steelers' Draft Plans?
Heading in to this month's NFL Draft, the Steelers find themselves in an unprecedented situation where they possess three picks in the top 50 selections after the Claypool trade. They currently hold the 17th, 32nd, and 49th overall pick. If utilized correctly, these three players could serve as meaningful contributors to the 2023 season and help the Steelers compete in an extremely tough AFC North division.
However, there is no guarantee that Omar Khan will keep each of these picks. He may find it necessary to move up in the first round and possibly forfeit one, or possibly both, of their second round selections. Would the Steelers do so to land their franchise left tackle in the form of Paris Johnson Jr. or Darnell Wright? Or maybe even attempt to move up to steal the best lockdown corner in this year's class in Christian Gonzalez? While trading up may serve as a risk, the insurance of having multiple second round selections is absolutely invaluable.
The Denver Gazette
Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez is an appealing option for the Steelers with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, if he's available.
Could The Steelers Move Down From Their First Round Pick?
The possibility of moving up in the first round presents an intriguing scenario for the Steelers. On the other hand, there may be merit in the team wanting to move back in the first round if the right opportunity comes about. If Omar Khan values picks in the second and third rounds at a premium, he may pull the trigger on trading back early in the draft in order to gain more selections on Day Two of the 2023 NFL Draft. This would allow the Steelers to cast a wider net for attempting to add depth at key positions of need such as offensive line, cornerback, defensive line, and wide receiver.
There is no denying that the Claypool trade played a critical part in the flexibility of the Steelers' draft plans. Having options is never a bad thing, and Omar Khan will undoubtedly exhaust every one of them in order to determine how to best utilize this year's class to improve the 2023 roster for the Steelers. There is even a distinct possibility that one of the players selected during the 2023 NFL Draft will serve as a replacement for the recently departed Claypool.
What Are Your Thoughts, Steeler Nation?
Alright, yinz. What are your thoughts on how the Steelers should best handle their first three picks in the 2023 NFL Draft? Is there a particular position group you would like to see the team address? Maybe even a specific player? Let's hear it in the comments!
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