Erik Kramer knows what playing football in Chicago is like. He had more success than most at it, even if his time was cut short by injuries. His 1995 season is still the best a Bears quarterback has ever had, with 3,838 yards and 29 touchdowns to only ten interceptions. He may not be an all-time great, but he knows what it takes to thrive at the position in this city. So, any insight he can give about Caleb Williams is worth hearing. Waddle & Silvy asked him about it on ESPN 1000.
In his mind, Kramer isn’t worried about Williams’ talent. That is obvious. His concern is whether the young QB will play the game the right way. He doesn’t want Williams abandoning his progressions as a passer in favor of taking off running. Hit the open man first. Patrick Mahomes had the same problem during his first season as a starter. If the first read wasn’t there, he’d start scrambling around. It worked because Mahomes was gifted in that department, but it would’ve never sustained long term. Thankfully, he started his progressions down the stretch of that year.
If Williams can learn to do the same, he’ll be good.
He won’t have to do everything himself. There will be three gifted wide receivers and a rock-solid tight end to throw to in the passing game. Not only that, but Kramer believes the Bears’ offensive line is slept on. It is much better than people give it credit for. Justin Fields made it difficult to see because of his tendency to hold the ball too long. If Williams plays on time like a normal quarterback should, their protection should shine. One thing is certain. This supporting cast is far better than the one he left behind at USC.
Kramer is correct. The big hurdle is learning how to play the position like a professional. That improvisational stuff will always be there when he needs it. Caleb Williams has to embrace the conventional style. Read the defense before the snap, get into the correct play, manipulate coverage with your eyes, and keep the footwork on time and in rhythm. It’s not easy. That is why so few people can play the position. The Bears believe Williams can. He has the intelligence, work ethic, and processing speed to do so. Does he have the discipline? We shall soon find out.
