Caleb Williams, Father Sought to Avoid Bears Draft

Caleb Williams and his father, Carl Williams, took active steps to avoid the Chicago Bears selecting him as the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, citing concerns about the team's history with quarterbacks. Carl Williams consulted lawyers, discussed UFL alternatives, sought advice from Archie Manning, and considered a public campaign against the Bears and the city. Despite a preference to play for the Minnesota Vikings after meeting coach Kevin O’Connell, Bears GM Ryan Poles insisted Chicago would draft Williams regardless of their efforts. Williams ultimately accepted the Bears' offer after a pre-draft visit, aiming to change the franchise's fortunes. His rookie season was tumultuous, with poor coaching support, a league-high 68 sacks, and midseason firings of head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. The Bears have since hired Ben Johnson as head coach, giving hope for greater stability as Williams heads into his second season.