It took three weeks, but a rookie quarterback has finally thrown a touchdown pass with Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears becoming the first to achieve the feat this season.
During the fourth quarter of Sunday’s contest between Chicago and the Indianapolis Colts, Williams — the No. 1 overall pick in April’s draft — connected with Bears wideout Rome Odunze for a one-yard touchdown.
The score was the first of both first-round picks’ NFL careers, and the duo had a proper celebration prepared for the occasion as they jokingly fought over who would keep the ball.
The score cut Indianapolis’ lead to 14-9 and the Bears tried to close the gap even further, but were unable to convert the two-point attempt.
Although Chicago would go on to force a three-and-out on Indianapolis’ subsequent drive, Williams gave the ball right back to the Colts on the Bears’ next possession. On first-and-10 at Chicago’s 18-yard line, Williams fumbled after getting sacked by Colts rookie edge-rusher Laiatu Latu, and the ball was recovered by defensive tackle Grover Stewart.
Indianapolis quickly made Williams pay for his costly mistake with running back Jonathan Taylor scoring a one-yard touchdown just four plays later. However, the Bears still managed to make things interesting late as Williams threw his second career touchdown pass to tight end Cole Kmet to make it a one-score game. Ultimately, the Colts were able to hang on for a 21-16 win.
Sunday’s game marked what was undoubtedly the most productive performance of Williams’ young career, having thrown for 355 yards and two touchdowns. However, the rookie’s fumble and two interceptions were too much for the Bears to overcome.
Williams will look to build upon the good in next week’s home clash with the Los Angeles Rams.
