The Chicago Bears have a new sheriff in town, and they’re working hard to prepare him for the upcoming NFL season. According to Bleacher Report, the Bears are working around the clock to prepare and train Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall NFL Draft choice.
“The Bears are working overtime to get him used to taking the ball under center, shotgun, play-action, and all of the nuances of their NFL-style offense, which he didn’t always use at USC,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said, according to Bleacher Report. “I’m told he’s really taken to that.”
After hunting for a new gunslinger all offseason, Chicago finally found him. The Bears parted ways with Justin Fields, who went to the Steelers. Fields was injured during the 2023 season, and Chicago was unable to locate a steady replacement in time to preserve the season. The Bears are coming off a 7-10 season, and supporters are looking for an improvement in 2024.
Williams is given the keys to Chicago’s attack.
Chicago used the first overall pick on Williams, a quarterback who previously played for USC football. During his final collegiate football season, Williams threw for 3,633 yards and 30 touchdowns. USC struggled down the stretch, unable to stop teams on defense, which cost them several games. Williams had a more statistically successful season in 2022, finishing with over 4,000 throwing yards and 42 touchdowns for the Trojans. In college, he played for Oklahoma.
The Bears are attempting to improve his overall game, and they appear to be patient with their rookie quarterback. According to Bleacher Report, the franchise has never had a passer reach 4,000 yards. Williams demonstrated in college that he can manage the workload. Chicago is hoping it will translate to the NFL level.
“I’ve spoken to his personal quarterback coach Will Hewlett, who got him ready for the draft, who says since early April he’s been working on the Bears’ scheme, cadence, footwork and that he knows that’s going to protect him long-term,” Fowler said. “He’s also using his arm strength to see what he can get away with during OTAs, which results in the rare inaccurate pass to interception. That’s fine; we’re attempting to work out the issues till September.”
Chicago is taking additional efforts to protect Williams.
This offseason, the Bears will also add some additional offensive weapons to their arsenal. With another first-round pick, the team selected Washington football’s wide receiver Rome Odunze. The two rookies appear to get along well, as seen by their appearances at Cubs games and neighborhood pubs.
Chicago is also expanding its offensive line. This offseason, the Bears added two veteran free agents: Coleman Shelton and Jake Curhan. Both signed one-year contracts, thus this season will have a significant impact on the futures of several Chicago players.
Bears fans are undoubtedly salivating to watch how the cards fall for their beloved team.
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