With Justin Fields traded from the Chicago Bears, their draft strategy becomes clearer. Holding the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft in April, general manager Ryan Poles is likely to select a quarterback, with Caleb Williams from USC being a strong possibility.
Williams comes with considerable hype, with some likening him to the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Peyton Manning, labeling him a “generational” talent. The Bears showed significant interest in him, as evidenced by the presence of nine representatives, including Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, and quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph, at the USC Pro Day.
Poles is now closely linked to Williams, and it’s crucial for him to ensure the rookie quarterback’s success, something he couldn’t quite achieve with Fields. With just three more picks following the first one, the Bears’ approach once the draft commences will be intriguing to observe.
Caleb Williams might be the Chicago Bears’ choice to be the franchise quarterback but he will need an attitude adjustment for the veterans to follow him.
While many are enthusiastic about the prospect of having Williams on board, there are valid concerns that some individuals harbor. Undoubtedly, he exudes immense confidence and enthusiasm when things are going his way. However, his demeanor takes a noticeable shift when faced with adversity.
Instances where Williams exhibited emotional breakdowns during and after games raise eyebrows. Notably, after a loss, he sought solace in the arms of his mother, shedding tears. Furthermore, his performance took a hit in 2023 following the Trojans’ elimination from the college football playoffs, with a significant drop in touchdown passes and a subdued attitude towards reporters.
These behaviors serve as red flags, particularly for someone expected to step in and assume a leadership role immediately. With a locker room filled with seasoned professionals, Williams’ leadership capabilities will be under scrutiny. While his on-field performance will certainly influence perceptions, his attitude will hold even greater sway.
Veteran players are cognizant of the situation, being privy to the hype surrounding Williams and some of his actions. His conduct at the NFL Combine, where he opted out of certain drills and medical examinations, raised eyebrows. Subsequently, revelations at his Pro Day regarding his height—falling short of previous measurements—add another layer of concern, given the historical rarity of sub-6-foot-1 quarterbacks winning the Super Bowl.
Despite these reservations, Williams maintains an unabashed confidence bordering on cockiness. The compatibility of this attitude with seasoned veterans remains a question mark.
Johnson issues a warning to Williams
Cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who recently inked a lucrative multiyear contract extension worth $76 million, is considered one of the stalwarts and leaders of the team. Known for his outspoken nature, he isn’t shy about voicing his opinions, even if it means facing fines, as evidenced during the Matt Nagy era.
Given his standing within the team, it comes as little surprise that Johnson has weighed in on the Williams situation. As a respected figure among the veterans, his sentiments likely echo the sentiments of many. Johnson emphasized the importance of humility for Williams, urging him to steer clear of bringing a “Hollywood” attitude into the locker room.
