Bears wide receiver D.J. Moore highlighted the marked improvement in quarterback Caleb Williams since the arrival of new head coach Ben Johnson. Moore emphasized that Williams consistently strives for excellence in his daily performance, reflecting both his personal drive and the coaching staff’s high expectations for leading the offense.
“You can tell he is on his A-game every day because I know he probably gets it the most out of everybody because he’s the quarterback and he wants to be perfect in himself and then the staff wants him to be perfect to lead this offense.”
—D.J. Moore, Bears Wide Receiver
Hendon Hooker Competes for Lions’ Backup Quarterback Position
Lions quarterback Hendon Hooker is engaged in a competition with Kyle Allen to secure the team’s backup quarterback role. Head coach Dan Campbell has noted that Hooker is expected to advance his development and recently showed positive signs through his performance during training, particularly in footwork and urgency.
“Hooker knows the deal. You’re out here to compete and we gave him some things to do while he was home, working on the urgency, the footwork, continue training, and it’s only one day but I liked what I saw out there yesterday. There was an urgency, I thought his footwork was on, I thought he was spitting the plays out, but again it’s day one. He knows what it is. He knows it’s time to take the next step, and it’s his move. I think he’s wired right, and it means something to him. So here we go.”
—Dan Campbell, Lions Head Coach
Updates from the Green Bay Packers Roster and Coaching Staff
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst provided several updates on key players and positional battles within the team. Offensive tackle Zach Tom remains a dependable presence moving forward. Cornerback and wide receiver Bo Melton is expected to primarily contribute on defense, highlighting the team’s interest in his versatility.
Gutekunst shared optimistic notes about guard Elgton Jenkins, who is recovering from a back injury and working toward returning to the field soon. The team is prioritizing Jenkins’ health to ensure he can take as many practice reps as possible once healthy.
Rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden, coming off a strong college career at Texas that included playoff experience, has a promising chance to impact the Packers’ offense in his inaugural season. Meanwhile, Christian Watson’s rehabilitation from a torn ACL is progressing well, and the team is carefully managing his recovery timeline.
At left tackle, the competition between Rasheed Walker and Jordan Morgan remains open, though Gutekunst noted the advantage of experience Morgan brings due to his career starts. Additionally, linebacker Quay Walker recently had surgery described as a “cleanup,” with expectations that he will not miss significant playing time.
Lastly, the Packers have signed former Colorado wide receiver Will Sheppard, following a short period with the Buccaneers, adding depth to their receiving corps.
“He’s been an extremely reliable player and person since he’s gotten here. … I think that was important for the Packers to get that done.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, on OT Zach Tom
“You guys will see, but Bo (Melton) is gonna spend most of his time at corner. We’re excited to see what he might be able to do on corner on defense.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM
“Our football team needs as many reps with him as possible, but we gotta get through this back thing first.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, on Elgton Jenkins’ injury
“He played in a fishbowl at Texas and went to the playoffs, so hopefully he’s seen some things that will help him.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, on rookie WR Matthew Golden
“He’s a freak. He did a run test the other day and looked great. It’s an ACL, so we’re going to take our time with him, but he’s pressing to get out there.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, on Christian Watson’s rehab
“It’s an open competition, but when you have 37 starts under your belt, there’s a comfort level that something would have to overtake that.”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, on LT battle between Rasheed Walker and Jordan Morgan
“A cleanup”
—Brian Gutekunst, Packers GM, describing Quay Walker’s ankle surgery
Implications for Current NFL Roster Moves and Quarterback Development
The developments surrounding Caleb Williams’ quarterback growth update under Ben Johnson emphasize the importance of skilled coaching on young players’ progression. Williams’ commitment to daily improvement sets the foundation for the Bears’ offensive success, aligning with the coaching staff’s mandate for precision and leadership.
Similarly, the Lions’ focus on cultivating Hendon Hooker’s skills as a backup quarterback underscores a strategic approach to enhancing depth at critical positions. Coaches are urging younger players to embrace competition and demonstrate rapid advancement to contribute meaningfully on game day.
The Packers’ roster updates reflect a period of transition and competition across multiple positions, with management aiming for both immediate performance and future potential. Balancing player health, newcomers’ integration, and positional battles will shape their readiness for the upcoming NFL season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Caleb Williams autosexual?
A. Caleb Williams has identified as “Autosexual.” This means that he feels a primary sexual attraction and desire towards himself, which is his sexual orientation.
Q. What happened to Caleb Williams?
A. Williams decided to enter the transfer portal on January 3, 2022. By February 1, he revealed his decision to join the University of Southern California. This move allowed him to play for the Trojans and reconnect with head coach Lincoln Riley, who had left the Sooners to lead the Trojans.
Q. Why does Caleb Williams wear #18?
A. Caleb Williams talked about the number 18, saying, “I wore it back in high school and won a championship with it. I also knew there’s a veteran here, Keenan Allen, who’s a Hall of Famer. We didn’t have a lengthy discussion about it.” Caleb did ask about using the number, then decided to choose a different one by saying, “OK, cool, I’ll pick a different number.”
Q. Why did Caleb Williams cry after the game?
A. Williams remembered feeling worn out and broken while sitting there. However, he stood up, approached his mom, and became emotional. For Williams, those tears did not show vulnerability; instead, they reflected his strong passion for the sport.