Caleb Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, had strong reservations about joining the Chicago Bears during last year’s NFL draft. As the draft approached, he and his father explored various strategies to avoid being selected by the struggling franchise.
- Caleb Williams sought to avoid the Bears.
- Williams explored alternatives to NFL draft.
- Carl Williams criticized the Bears' history.
- Bears GM assured drafting Caleb Williams.
- Caleb believed he could lead the Bears.
- Bears had a disappointing 2022 season.
In the upcoming biography “American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback,” author Seth Wickersham reveals that the Williamses even considered legal loopholes and public criticism to steer clear of Chicago. Williams’s father, Carl, famously remarked, “Chicago is the place quarterbacks go to die,” highlighting their concerns about the team’s history.
Despite these initial hesitations, Caleb ultimately accepted his fate, believing he could lead the Bears to success. However, his rookie season was tumultuous, with 20 touchdowns but a league-high 68 sacks, contributing to a disappointing 5-12 record. As the Bears look to rebuild, will they finally turn the corner?
The narrative surrounding Caleb Williams raises important questions about player agency in the NFL. Can a franchise truly support a young quarterback’s development, or are certain teams destined for failure?
- Williams threw for 20 touchdowns but faced 68 sacks, a league high.
- The Bears endured a 10-game losing streak during the season.
- Coaching changes include hiring Ben Johnson as head coach.
- Williams’s rookie season led to significant scrutiny of the Bears’ management.
As the Bears prepare for the upcoming season, fans are eager to see if new leadership can finally bring a winning culture to the franchise. Will the team rise to the occasion?