Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears have been closely aligned since the early stages of the pre-draft evaluation process. The Bears entered the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine with Williams as their primary target, intending to schedule a top-30 visit promptly afterward to acquire his medical data and solidify plans regarding quarterback Justin Fields.
Although the top-30 visit was postponed until early April, Bears General Manager Ryan Poles was eager to provide Fields with a fresh opportunity while paving the way for Williams. On March 16, just four days before Williams’ pro day in Los Angeles and three weeks ahead of his visit to Halas Hall, Poles executed a trade sending Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick.
While the timing of the trade caught Williams off guard, it underscored the Bears’ clear intention to select him as the top overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Reflecting on the moment, Williams recounted being in transit to a business meeting in West Hollywood when he was inundated with notifications about the trade, prompting him to adjust his approach and diligently prepare for the forthcoming changes.
Subsequently, the Bears spent two days with Williams in Los Angeles preceding his pro day and hosted him for dinner with veteran players during his top-30 visit to Halas Hall. Throughout the quarterback evaluation process, Poles emphasized the importance of selecting not only a talented player but also a person of strong character. Williams’ leadership qualities and ability to foster camaraderie among teammates left a lasting impression on the Bears’ decision-makers.
Poles praised Williams’ ability to balance the demands of being a star quarterback in the NIL era with remaining grounded and dedicated to team success. This holistic approach to leadership, coupled with his exceptional talent, solidified Williams as the Bears’ preferred choice for their quarterback position.
The Bears’ commitment to drafting Williams was reaffirmed by their decision to trade Fields, setting the stage for Williams to be announced as the first overall pick in the upcoming draft. With aspirations to emulate Tom Brady’s longevity and success, Williams eagerly anticipates joining Chicago and contributing to the team’s pursuit of Super Bowl championships.
In expressing his anticipation for the move to Chicago, Williams emphasized his desire to establish a lasting legacy with one team and pursue success on the football field, aligning with the city’s fervent passion for the game.
