Bears' Williams, Veterans to Skip Preseason Opener

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams addressed a viral video showing missed throws during a training camp drill, clarifying that his frustration was staged as part of a friendly competition among teammates. Williams explained the drill prioritized quick releases, and both he and general manager Ryan Poles dismissed concerns about his performance. Head coach Ben Johnson has decided that Williams and several veterans will skip the first preseason game, prioritizing joint practices for evaluation and preparation. The team sees these joint practices as more valuable than early preseason games for assessing readiness. Williams, following a difficult rookie season, is expected to benefit from improved coaching and a stronger roster. The Bears remain confident in Williams' development and focus on growth ahead of the regular season.