The Chicago Bears may have suffered a heartbreaking 30-27 overtime loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, but the silver lining was the continued growth and poise displayed by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft set a Bears franchise rookie passing record and nearly led a furious fourth-quarter comeback, offering hope for the future in Chicago.
Williams Thrives Under New OC Thomas Brown
Since the Bears promoted Thomas Brown to offensive coordinator in Week 11, Williams has taken noticeable strides forward. Brown’s directive to the young QB before the final drive was simple yet empowering: “Go be Superman.” And Williams nearly pulled it off.
In the last two games under Brown, Williams has boosted his completion percentage from 61% to 71%, increased his yards per attempt from 6.1 to 7.3, and cut his pressure rate in half. The rookie’s decisive play was on full display against the Vikings’ aggressive defense.
He has a certain aura to him that he just allows you to play free. He knows what he wants. You know he knows what he wants.
– Caleb Williams on OC Thomas Brown
Setting Franchise Rookie Records
On Sunday, Williams broke Mitchell Trubisky’s Bears rookie passing record of 2,193 yards set in 2017. Through 11 games, Williams now has 2,356 yards and is on pace for 3,641 this season – just shy of Erik Kramer’s single-season franchise record.
Williams completed 32 of 47 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns against the Vikings, snapping a four-game streak without a passing TD. His 103.1 passer rating was particularly impressive against a Minnesota defense that had held opposing QBs to a 79.4 rating entering Week 12.
Earning Praise from Teammates and Opponents
Williams’ teammates raved about his ability to handle the Vikings’ blitzes and lead the offense in crunch time. “His confidence is through the roof,” said wide receiver DJ Moore. “To see him go out there and just be able to play quarterback like he wants to is amazing to see.”
Even Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell came away impressed, embracing Williams after the game and later commenting on the young QB’s potential:
Caleb just continues to get better and better… It’s going to be a challenge. We’re going to have to play as consistently as possible and disciplined as possible against him as he continues to grow.
– Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell on Caleb Williams
Building Momentum Despite Losses
Although the Bears have now lost five straight to fall to 4-7, Williams’ development provides a bright spot. In each of Chicago’s last two NFC North losses to the Packers and Vikings, the rookie has shown the ability to keep his team in the game.
Bears head coach Matt Ebeflus praised Williams’ “true grit” and called his play “inspiring to the whole football team.” As painful as the overtime loss was, it’s clear the Bears have a budding star to build around for the future.
With six games left, starting with a Thanksgiving matchup in Detroit, Williams will look to continue his growth and give Bears fans reason for optimism heading into 2025. If his recent play is any indication, the “Superman” comparisons may prove to be more than just a motivational message.
