The Chicago Bears drafted Caleb Williams out of USC in the 2024 NFL draft, with the goal of making him their future quarterback and face of the organization.
The Bears have been around since 1920, making them one of the oldest franchises in the NFL. What’s even more impressive is that many football purists will tell you they’ve never had an “elite” quarterback. Bears fans themselves will admit that they’ve never rooted for a great signal caller, even with a Super Bowl trophy in the resume.
With Caleb Williams being the next in line to try and break that long streak, many wonder if he has the tools mentally and physically to become what so many hope for. During his rookie season, he lead the Bears to a 5-12 campaign, throwing for over 3,500 yards and 20 touchdowns. Those are decent numbers, given the situation he was in. Williams also only threw just six interceptions, another solid sign.
So, what are the next steps for the former USC Trojan? How will he and the team build on the 2024 season?
Caleb Williams isn’t here to make friends with the rest of the league’s QBs, regardless of public perception
Chatter on social media regarding Williams has been a hot topic since he was at USC. Some fans think he’s too outspoken and even view him as arrogant at times due to some of his past comments and quirky personality. Unfortunately, his play on the field will need to continue in an upward trend if he wants to shake any of those narratives going forward.
And while that can be an understandable viewpoint from fans on the couch, this kid is just 23 years of age. Oftentimes, many forget that they’re twice the age of the player they’re ragging on.
Another spicy quote has dropped from Williams today, as an article from Esquire written by Brian O’Keefe dropped earlier this morning. Caleb mentioned his current thoughts on the NFL’s friendliness and that he has no interest in participating.
As for his younger peers in the league today, Williams says he respects that they’re members of a very select fraternity together. But while he says they are all “probably great guys,” he doesn’t have a particular bond with any of them and doesn’t plan to cultivate one. “I think the NFL game has become very friendly, and I don’t necessarily want to be friends, because I want to keep that competitive advantage,” he says.
Anyone taking this quote the wrong way can blame themselves.
This is the exact attitude you want from your young quarterback. Williams wanting to keep that competitive advantage says everything, especially in a league that has gotten a tad softer in the past few years. I’m sure Bears head coach Ben Johnson is smiling after reading this.
What does a successful second season look like for Caleb Williams?
I’d imagine it includes a playoff berth or at least a push toward the postseason. Fans will certainly expect it after the offensive line overhaul, a brand new head coach with a shiny new offense, and a defense that has improved as well. After the 2025 NFL draft, hopefully, the roster will look even better.
Williams will continue to be himself, and I think Bears fans should embrace it. He’s unapologetic about his true feelings and does seem like he wants to get better every day. His relationship with Johnson will be a big factor in their success going forward, as will his chemistry with second-year wideout Rome Odunze.
Again, Williams having no interest in being best buddies with Jared Goff and Jordan Love doesn’t bother me at all. If anything, it’s a good sign of things to come for the Bears and maybe even the league. Bring back the competitive fire, and get rid of the constant jersey swaps.
We could be watching the birth of a superstar or another disappointment at the QB position.
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