(670 The Score) After trading three-year starting quarterback Justin Fields on Saturday, the Bears got a glimpse Wednesday at what’s likely next for them at the position.
A large Bears contingent traveled to Los Angeles to attend the USC pro day and scout prized quarterback prospect Caleb Williams, the presumptive No. 1 overall pick, a selection that Chicago holds.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, assistant general manager Ian Cunningham, offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph and even newly acquired receiver Keenan Allen were part of the group from Chicago on hand in Los Angeles, where Williams ran through a script of throws for those on hand. The workout was broadcast on NFL Network.
All 32 NFL teams were present for USC’s pro day, but Williams is expected to be drafted by the Bears with the No. 1 overall pick when the NFL Draft begins April 25. After his workout, Williams was asked if it was his "full expectation" that the Bears will draft him, but he kept his focus on himself.
“I wouldn’t say it’s my full expectation,” Williams told NFL Network. “Obviously, things can happen, things can change around this time.
“A lot can change. You take it day by day and handle and control what you can control.”
Williams, who's 22, threw for 10,082 yards and 83 touchdowns over three collegiate seasons. He spent the 2021 campaign at Oklahoma, then transferred to USC when Sooners coach Riley Lincoln left for the Trojans. Williams won the Heisman Trophy in 2022.
The Bears’ visit to Los Angeles is an important part of their process to confirm their intention of selecting Williams. The team’s brass had dinner with him and will also conduct medical assessments, which are a key part of the evaluations.
The Bears traded Fields to the Steelers on Saturday for a conditional sixth-round pick in 2025, opening their starting quarterback job ahead of the draft.
Now, the Bears must solidify their conviction in Williams as the future of the franchise.
“Any type of relationship, it’s time on task and just kind of getting to know the personality,” Poles said in February. “There’s been a ton of information gathering from my team just in terms of teammates, coaches, things like that, but you’ve got to spend time with another person really to understand their wiring.”
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.