A new book, ‘American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback,’ by Seth Wickersham, reveals that Caleb Williams, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, attempted to avoid being drafted by the Chicago Bears. The book details how Williams and his family consulted with lawyers to find a loophole in the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, while his father, Carl, expressed skepticism about the Bears’ future under then-head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.
Despite these concerns, Williams eventually decided to stay in the NFL, and after meeting with Bears brass, he felt he could succeed there. However, his rookie season was marred by coaching instability and personal challenges, including being sacked 68 times, the most in the NFL. Despite this, Williams ended his rookie season with 20 touchdowns, six interceptions, 3,542 passing yards, and 489 rushing yards, setting Bears’ records for total yards. The Bears also added Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the 10th overall pick, enhancing their roster.
The book also highlights the broader context of the NFL draft, where players like Eli Manning and John Elway faced similar challenges. The Bears’ management, including General Manager Ryan Poles, was steadfast in their choice of Williams, despite the family’s concerns. Williams’ decision to stay with the Bears, after the departure of Eberflus and Waldron, was a significant turning point in his career. He expressed his excitement about the new head coach, Ben Johnson, and the stability he believed the Bears had finally achieved.
Williams’ rookie season was a mix of highs and lows, with his performance fluctuating due to the constant changes in the coaching staff. The Bears’ decision to draft Loveland further solidified their offensive strategy, aiming to support Williams’ growth as a franchise quarterback. As the team looks to the future, the success of Williams and the integration of new talent will be critical in determining the Bears’ position in the NFL landscape.
Overall, Caleb Williams’ journey from avoiding the Bears to becoming their next franchise quarterback illustrates the complexities of the NFL draft and the challenges faced by young players in navigating the professional sports landscape. The book provides an in-depth look at these issues, shedding light on the personal and professional considerations that shape a player’s path in the league.