Caleb Williams was entering a new world as far as absorbing an offensive scheme. While Lincoln Riley gave him certain freedoms at USC, the head coach was always in direct control of things. That won’t be the case with the Chicago Bears. While offensive coordinator Shane Waldron will call the plays, Williams will be responsible for everything else. He must read the defense, adjust protections, diagnose coverages, and call audibles if necessary. That requires a strong knowledge of the playbook.
Things got off to a predictable start in OTAs and minicamps. Williams wasn’t familiar with reciting plays in the huddle or having cadences before the snap. All of it led to miscommunications before and after the snap. Chicago expected such things and kept working with him. Fast forward two months, and things have drastically changed. Both head coach Matt Eberflus and wide receiver Keenan Allen admitted the quarterback’s mastery of the offensive language took a massive step forward. He is far more in command than ever.
It may seem like a small one, but people would be surprised how many young quarterbacks get tripped up by the complicated process of playing the position in the NFL. Such a flood of information can cause sensory overload, leading to frequent mistakes. Williams doesn’t seem to have that problem. His first practice of camp went well. Most of his throws were accurate, and there was little hesitation in his decision-making. Confidence is building in those around him. They can already see the potential.
Anticipation is building for the pads to go on. That will be when Caleb Williams gets to show what he can really do. The first such practice takes place on July 27th. Four days later, Chicago will head to Canton for the Hall of Fame game. It isn’t known if Williams will play in that event. If so, it will likely be for one series at most. Whatever the case, everybody is eager to see the #1 overall pick work. Based on his progress thus far, he may have more success early in 2024 than some predict.
