Caleb Williams’ Controversial Draft Experience: From Avoiding the Bears to Embracing New Coaching Under Ben Johnson

CHICAGO – Recent reports have surfaced suggesting that Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears quarterback, was less than thrilled about being drafted by the team. According to a new biography titled American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback, Williams and his father, Carl, made efforts to avoid the Bears during the 2024 NFL Draft. They were looking into alternatives like the United Football League and were even considering ways to create controversy surrounding the draft.

Despite these attempts, the Bears selected Williams with the No. 1 overall pick. He played only 12 games under former head coach Matt Eberflus before the coaching staff was reshuffled. Now, Williams is set to begin a new chapter under his new head coach, Ben Johnson.

Former NFL star Boomer Esiason weighed in on this controversy during his morning show. He expressed disappointment regarding Williams’ reaction to the Bears and emphasized the pressure now resting on the young quarterback’s shoulders. “The level of entitlement is breathtaking,” Esiason remarked, noting Williams’ rough transition into the league. He urged the young player to rise to the occasion and flip the narrative: “It’s going to be on his a– to live up to these so-called lofty expectations.”

Esiason encouraged Williams to focus on his game and not get caught up in his criticisms of the organization. “Just keep your mouth shut, you’re going into the greatest league that there’s ever been for the sport that we all love,” he advised. “Go out and play football and earn your keep and earn your respect.”

So far, neither Williams nor the Bears have publicly addressed the allegations about the draft concerns. However, Williams did express excitement about the new coaching direction, sharing, “I was driving on the highway and I gave a loud yell and scream of just excitement… I’m really excited about the Bears and being able to make this happen.”

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be watching to see how Williams handles the pressure and expectations as he embarks on his sophomore year in the NFL.