The Chicago Bears are gearing up for an exciting season, having secured former USC football standout Caleb Williams as the first overall pick in the 2024 Draft. Bears GM Ryan Poles was particularly impressed by a moment during the USC-Notre Dame game on October 14th, where Williams, noticing legendary quarterback Joe Montana on the sidelines, approached and greeted him, displaying confidence, respect, and humility.
Poles recounted the incident, highlighting Williams’ mature demeanor: “For a young kid to go up to a quarterback like that, Hall of Famer, and not as an, ‘I’m in the same circle as you’, but ‘I look up to you’, and, yet, there wasn’t this college fear of talking to an adult. He did it with confidence and swagger, but a ton of respect and humility at the same time—I couldn’t get that out of my mind.”
Despite USC’s loss in the game, Williams’ behavior and attitude left a lasting impression on Poles. Throughout the game, Williams showed encouragement to his teammates and remained composed even in frustrating moments, demonstrating his leadership qualities.
Williams’ character, along with his impressive on-field performance, has garnered praise. After a stellar first year at USC, where he threw for 4,537 yards and 42 touchdowns, he followed up with a solid junior year despite playing through a finger injury, amassing 3,622 yards and 30 TDs. Although USC’s performance did not reach previous heights, Williams’ talent and potential are undeniable.
Joining the Bears, Williams will be part of a talented roster including DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and strong defensive players, setting the stage for a new era of success in Chicago.
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