Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams publicly addressed concerns regarding his dedication to the franchise following revelations in an upcoming book that he considered avoiding being drafted by the team. After the team’s second OTA practice, Williams delivered a nearly four-minute statement addressing the speculation.
This was prompted by excerpts from Seth Wickersham’s forthcoming book American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback, which detailed conversations between Williams and his father about possibly steering his NFL future away from Chicago. Williams admitted the rumors have been a “distraction” and clarified his position for the first time.
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Williams acknowledged initial doubts about joining the Bears, citing the team’s historic struggles at the quarterback position. He referenced Chicago’s lack of a 4,000-yard passer as a factual concern he had during the pre-draft process.
While the book noted Minnesota as his preferred destination, Williams stated that a pre-draft visit with the Bears in April 2024 shifted his mindset. He expressed a strong desire to become the player who helps redefine the team’s quarterback legacy, saying, “I wanted to be here. I love being here.”
Caleb Williams Shuts Down Draft Doubts, Commits to Leading Bears Into a New EraThe 2024 season was turbulent for both Williams and the Bears, ending with a 5-12 record. Despite individual highlights — such as 3,541 passing yards and 20 touchdowns — Williams also faced heavy adversity, including 68 sacks and the league’s 31st-ranked QBR.
The season saw the firing of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus. Although his father reportedly warned him that “Chicago is the place quarterbacks go to die,” Williams emphasized that those opinions do not reflect his own.
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Williams elaborated on his relationship with his father, Carl Williams, acknowledging his strong opinions and protective nature. Caleb explained that while he values his father’s input, he maintains autonomy over his career.
He shared that he often has to “shut [his] dad down” when discussions become too intense, emphasizing mutual respect within their family dynamic. He made clear that while his parents are deeply involved, they do not speak on his behalf.
The Wickersham book also touched on a lack of support Williams felt from Chicago’s former coaching staff, citing that he often had to study film independently. Williams clarified this point, stating that while he wasn’t instructed on what to watch, the portrayal was somewhat misleading. He expressed a desire to learn more efficient ways to study film and viewed the anecdote in the book as humorous, albeit taken out of context.
New Bears head coach Ben Johnson has expressed a commitment to rewriting the narrative surrounding quarterback development in Chicago. Johnson emphasized the importance of improving Williams’ body language and resilience in the face of adversity.
The goal, according to Johnson, is to create a leadership model that elevates the entire team, focusing on moving forward with a growth mindset. With Johnson at the helm and Williams fully on board, the Bears are aiming to change the course of their quarterback history.
