Caleb Williams on Chicago Hope

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Cincinnati Bengals made headlines in 2020 when they selected Joe Burrow as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, a decision that was met with unanimous approval. Burrow's rookie season was cut short due to a knee injury, but he still managed to impress with a completion rate of 65%, amassing 2,688 yards, 13 touchdowns, and five interceptions in just 10 games. The Chicago Bears are now hoping to replicate that success with their own top draft pick, Caleb Williams. Williams, who has been compared to Burrow, is expected to take the reins as the Bears' starting quarterback. Burrow expressed confusion over the Bears' decision to delay naming Williams as the starter, emphasizing the importance of getting first-team reps during training camp. He noted that being named the starter early on allowed him to build chemistry with his teammates, a crucial factor for success in the league. As the Bears aim for a competitive season, they are optimistic about Williams' ability to learn quickly on the job. The excitement was palpable during a recent joint practice where both Burrow and Williams showcased their skills on adjacent fields. Williams, an Ohio native, faces significant pressure as he steps into a role reminiscent of Burrow's at LSU, where he thrived under similar expectations. Reflecting on his own journey, Burrow highlighted the challenges of an NFL season, emphasizing the importance of growth and learning from each experience. With strong coaching and a commitment to improvement, both quarterbacks are poised to make their mark in the league.