Chase Claypool's days with Bears might be numbered after another lackluster performance

A sincere apology from Bears wide receiver Chase Claypool might not be enough to save his career in Chicago. 

Per Fox Sports NFL insider Jay Glazer, Claypool — who recorded no receptions in Week 1 — recently apologized to teammates, head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles for poor effort. The Bears told the 25-year-old they will deactivate him and possibly trade him if he continues to loaf. 

Claypool turned in an uninspiring performance in a 27-17 loss against Tampa Bay. Despite a TD, he only caught three receptions for 36 yards. The Bears passing offense sputtered throughout the game, only recording 169 passing yards (4.6 yards per pass). 

The Bears had high expectations for the 49th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. In 2022, Chicago dealt a second-round pick (No. 32 overall) to Pittsburgh to acquire the Notre Dame product. 

The 6-foot-4, 238-pounder flashed upside in three seasons with the Steelers, catching 153 receptions for 2,044 yards and 12 TDs in 39 games. Pittsburgh moved on from Claypool despite his potential because it felt like he was becoming a distraction, per CBS Sports' Josina Anderson. 

Nonetheless, the Bears took the risk on the WR and it's not paying off. He's only had 17 receptions for 176 yards and one TD in nine games since he joined Chicago last season.

Claypool must show the Bears more. Otherwise, they will move on from the young WR, and he may get another chance to latch on and start for another team.