Caleb Williams is a realist, and that is a good thing. He already understands that he's not in the Pac-12 anymore. NFL defenses are a different breed. Everybody at this level is good. If he wants to reach the heights of greatness like Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers, he must learn to operate like them. It isn't about how far you can throw the ball. It is about accuracy, timing, anticipation, and consistency. One can't live on big plays like in college. Good quarterbacks accept the high-percentage throws and work their way down the field, playing the chess match.
Chicago's Quarterback Journey
Chicago hasn't had a quarterback like that in a long time. Justin Fields couldn't do it. Mitch Trubisky couldn't do it. Jay Cutler could only do it sometimes. Kyle Orton could do it but didn't have enough talent. Caleb Williams hopes to be the one who finally bridges that gap. He has the talent. He clearly understands the importance of playing the game from the pocket. It is a matter of executing. The Bears are doing everything in their power to help. Everything rests on what he does with it.
Optimism in the Bears' Camp
The Chicago Bears got through OTAs and mandatory minicamps without any notable issues. Certain players didn't complete the full slate due to minor health setbacks, but there were no indications it was something serious. Quarterback Caleb Williams showed steady progress in learning the new offense. The defense looks every bit as talented and ornery as it did last season. Head coach Matt Eberflus seems happy with how things are progressing. Unsurprisingly, he insists there is lots of work to do.
Spring Optimism and New Talent
Still, the optimism coming out of the spring seems higher than normal. This doesn't feel like a team leaning on hope anymore. They seem confident that 2024 is the year they start competing with the big boys. A key reason for that is the arrival of new talent. Keenan Allen came over via trade. Kevin Byard and D'Andre Swift signed as free agents. Of course, there is Williams, the #1 overall pick. However, none of them were the ones who impressed Eberflus the most. He had that name ready when asked at his latest presser.
Coach Eberflus' Impressions
As seen Here - Bears rookie minicamp progress
POLL | ||
11 JUIN | 43 ANSWERS Matt Eberflus Disclosed the Standout Player from Minicamps Do you think Caleb Williams will bridge the gap for the Bears? | ||
Yes | 35 | 81.4 % |
No | 8 | 18.6 % |
List of polls |