Chase Claypool trade: Steelers HC Mike Tomlin takes shot at former WR after trade to Bears

The Pittsburgh Steelers are 2-6, a record they have never experienced with Mike Tomlin as head coach. This week, the team traded wide receiver Chase Claypool to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a second-round draft pick.

Speaking to the media, Tomlin noted that it was the value of the pick and the depth already at wide receiver that ignited the trade. He elaborated that the wide receiver position is not a position that the Steelers need to add anything to. So, by parting ways with Claypool, it allows them a valuable draft pick that they can use next year in a position that is necessary. Here's how he put it:

“With the Chase deal, it was about draft capital and value for us. The Chicago Bears’ second-round pick is a pick that we value, and we’re excited about what that brings us. But it’s more than just being excited about capital."

He said that the Steelers offense is capable of making plays inside without Claypool. Considering that is where he mostly plays this season, he was the player they chose to trade:

"We’ve got some games left to play and we feel really comfortable with the depth that we have at Chase’s position, the wide receiver position, and more specifically, we’re really comfortable with our playmaking ability inside. He’s made the majority of his plays to this point in the season inside."

The head coach, who has never had a losing season in his tenure with Pittsburgh, made it seem like a cut-and-dry situation. Trading Claypool is not something he or the rest of the front office is regretting at the moment. Claypool has recorded 32 catches for 311 yards and just one touchdown so far this season.

What are the Pittsburgh Steelers' issues on offense?

Chase Claypool in front of the Pittsburgh faithful

The Pittsburgh Steelers offense looks like a shell of its former self. While many changes were inevitable as quarterback Ben Roethlisberger retired, no one believed it would be this bad. The Steelers have had a -80 point differential since Week 2, which puts them last in the NFL. The Detroit Lions are second to last and their point differential is -49.

Pittsburgh started Mitchell Trubisky in Week 1, however, they implemented a QB change in Week 3. Pittsburgh turned to rookie Kenny Pickett to provide a spark midway through the matchup against the New York Jets. Now as the starting quarterback, Pickett has failed to impress. He has thrown for just over 700 yards and two passing touchdowns against seven interceptions and one fumble.

Pittsburgh entered the season believing the running game was in good hands with second-year player Najee Harris. After an impressive rookie campaign, Harris has struggled this season. He averages just over three yards per carry and backup running back Jaylen Warren is averaging just over two yards per carry.

Steelers fans believe that the play-calling by offensive coordinator Matt Canada is the biggest issue for the team. While Mike Tomlin has acknowledged that there could be changes down the road, none have been made as of yet. Pittsburgh are currently on a bye week and will then face the 3-5 New Orleans Saints at home next week. We will see if they can turn their season around in the coming weeks.

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Steelers.com and H/T Sportskeeda.