Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears’ 2024 No. 1 draft pick, displayed a strong finish in their final preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Although his early drives lacked impact, Williams’s performance improved notably during a late two-minute drill, giving fans a glimpse of his potential in the upcoming season.
Performance Overview in the Preseason Finale
Williams played through the entire first half, completing 11 of 15 passes for 115 yards and one touchdown. Despite the slow start with two unproductive drives, his ability to close out the game effectively gave a more positive outlook on his capabilities as the Bears prepare for the regular season. His effort sparked praise among supporters following his exit.
Context from Williams’s Rookie Season and Expectations Ahead
In his rookie year, Williams threw for 3,541 yards, recording 20 touchdowns and six interceptions, during a challenging season as the Bears finished 5-12. Although he showed flashes of talent, expectations remained tempered given his impressive history at USC. The inconsistent moments during Friday’s game reflected ongoing growing pains.
Implications for the Bears’ 2024 Offense Under New Coaching
Williams’s resilience in the final moments serves as an encouraging sign as he prepares to take on a larger role managing the offense under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. The ability to bounce back after difficult phases will be critical for the Bears’ hopes of improvement this season.