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5d ago

Caleb Williams’ Pre-Draft Resistance to Bears Revisited in New Biography

Details from a forthcoming book reveal the quarterback's initial efforts to avoid Chicago and his eventual embrace of the team, as new coach Ben Johnson highlights a fresh start.

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Dec 26, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) rolls out of the pocket during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • A new biography details how Caleb Williams and his father explored legal and alternative routes to avoid him being drafted by the Bears in 2024, citing the team's poor history with quarterbacks.
  • Carl Williams, Caleb’s father, reportedly labeled Chicago as 'the place quarterbacks go to die' and considered options such as bypassing the draft or joining the United Football League.
  • Despite their efforts, Bears GM Ryan Poles insisted on drafting Williams, leading the quarterback to commit to the team after a pre-draft visit convinced him of his potential to lead a turnaround.
  • Williams endured a challenging rookie season, including a league-high 68 sacks and instability in the coaching staff, which resulted in the midseason firing of head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.
  • New head coach Ben Johnson has publicly supported Williams, emphasizing his pride in being a Bear and framing the 2025 season as an opportunity to reset and build a stronger foundation for the franchise.