"It's all set up": Chris Broussard forsees bold future for Caleb Williams after underwhelming showing in debut season

The Chicago Bears took Caleb Williams with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL draft. While they had big expectations for the quarterback, Williams had a rather underwhelming rookie season.

Nonetheless, the Bears have bolstered their offensive line this offseason while also adding some weapons for Williams heading into his second year.

On Thursday, analyst Christ Broussard appeared on FS1's "First Things First" to discuss some of his dark horse MVP candidates, and placed Williams at the top of the list.

"At number three, Brock Purdy, he wants to live up to his money," Broussard said. "Easiest schedule, he's a dark horse for MVP. At number two, Baker Mayfield, they (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) should win that division, and he's coming off of his best year ... And they added the receiver from Ohio State, Emeka Egbuka, I'm looking for big things.

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"At number one, we go to Chicago. Caleb Williams. I mean, it's all set up. And here's the thing, he showed enough flashes, like I would be surprised if he does not play well."

In his rookie season, Williams recorded 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns and six interceptions. He also rushed for 489 yards on 81 carries, leading the Bears to a 5-12 record.

Williams was also sacked 68 times, which was the most of any quarterback in 2024.

Bears HC Ben Johnson heaps praise on Caleb Williams's eagerness to improve

NFL: Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams- Source: Imagn

On Tuesday, Bears coach Ben Johnson praised Williams' commitment to learning the team's offense as the team began its mandatory minicamp.

"He's committed to learning the offense," Johnson said. "We're not where we need to be yet as a team, and he understands that. Any chance he gets to get a few more full-speed reps, it sounds like he wants them."

Williams was also in attendance for Chicago's voluntary OTAs in the final week of their offseason program.

Since Johnson will be entering his first year as the Bears' coach in the 2025 season, there will be a lot riding on Williams' ability to lead the team's offense. Many believe that the QB could guide Chicago to the playoffs next season.

The Bears begin their 2025 season by hosting the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 8.

About the author

Arnold is a journalist covering College Sports and the NFL at Sportskeeda. He has been with the company since August 2022.

Arnold graduated with a degree in Mass Media from MIC. As a sports fanatic, he pursued writing to express his thoughts and opinions on sports events across the globe. He has also worked at Wizcraft and Publicis.

Arnold began supporting the Kansas City Chiefs after watching Patrick Mahomes lead them to Super Bowl glory in 2020. He also has a soft corner for the New York Yankees since he's lived in New York for two years. Arnold's favorite coach of all time is Andy Reid, and the Chiefs dynasty looks far from over.

In his free time, Arnold enjoys reading, exercising, and traveling. He follows several other sports including football, cricket, tennis, basketball, boxing and F1.

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Edited by Akshay Saraswat