The Chicago Bears are bucking the trend in their pursuit of Caleb Williams, the highly touted USC quarterback projected to be their top pick in Thursday’s NFL Draft.
In a departure from the usual protocol of prospective draft picks dining with owners and coaches, the Bears have opted for a more player-centric approach. They sent Williams to dinner with respected roster leaders Cole Kmet, DJ Moore, T. J Edwards, and others, according to ESPN.
This strategic move aims to foster a closer connection between Williams and his potential teammates, who the Bears believe will be more receptive to their peers’ feedback than to that of the coaching staff. By having players like Edwards and Kmet interact with Williams, the Bears seek to gain insights into his mindset and relay those observations to the entire team.
The Bears’ commitment to player engagement is further exemplified by the presence of new recruit Keenan Allen at Williams’ USC Pro Day to show support for his future quarterback. Allen, acquired in a trade from the Los Angeles Chargers, praised Williams’ athleticism and football acumen.
Williams and Allen have a prior connection from their time in Los Angeles, adding a personal touch to their potential on-field partnership in Chicago. The Bears have also strengthened their offensive firepower by signing former Chargers tight end Gerald Everett and Philadelphia Eagles running back D’Andre Swift.
While Williams’ selection as the Bears’ starting quarterback is not yet official, his integration into the team’s fabric through player-led interactions and the gathering of key offensive players signals a strong commitment to building a cohesive and successful squad.
