The Bears have high expectations for their young and talented offense, led by 2024 No. 1 overall pick QB Caleb Williams.
However, it seems that he and the rest of the offense have had some struggles early on in OTAs.
Wide receiver D.J. Moore called Thursday’s practice a “frustrating” day as Chicago’s defense consistently outperformed Williams and the offense.
One of the defenders who got the better of Williams was two-time Pro Bowl safety Kevin Byard, but instead of gloating, he gave the rookie some advice.
“I said something to him at the end of practice like, ‘Keep it going. We’re going to keep making you better,'” Byard said via Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com. “And not necessarily saying he had a terrible day, but days like this are going to make you better.”
Veterans like Byard need to keep up the confidence of Williams, as the offense will make plays in due time.
Several new pieces, such as running back D’Andre Swift, wide receivers Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze, and tight end Gerald Everett, must gel.
The rookie quarterback responded with exactly what the Bears wanted to hear.
“Of course, I will,” Williams stated.
Plus, Chicago’s defense should dominate early on, especially after improving greatly over the second half of the 2023 season, finishing the year as the best run defense in the league.
The unit will only improve with Byard’s free-agent addition, and players like defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson entering their second seasons.
If Williams’ and the offense’s struggles continue deep into the summer during training camp and preseason, then it should be something to worry about.
Naturally, there will be some growing pains. Williams may do great things in the future, but he still has a way to go.
