Preseason Bills vs. Bears: Caleb Williams Playing Status Revealed

Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams will be making his pro football debut this weekend in western New York against the Buffalo Bills.

As the teams prepare for a Saturday afternoon preseason matchup at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, Chicago head coach Matt Eberflus announced Thursday that his starters, including Williams, will play — meaning that the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s Draft is set to make his first start on an NFL gridiron.

“We’re excited about that, guys are juiced about it,” Eberflus said via Chicago Tribune beat reporter Brad Biggs. “We want to see a good flow and rhythm to it.”

Last season at USC, Williams completed 69 percent of his passes for 3,633 yards, 30 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also earned 11 rushing touchdowns, cementing his status as an elite playmaking prospect at the pro level. In addition to both his top-quality arm talent and outstanding running ability, Williams’ expertise allows him go off-script to create a big play — a skill which would undoubtedly be welcomed in New England.

Like Eberflus has confirmed for the Bears, Bills coach Sean McDermott has also communicated his intention to play all of the team's healthy starters, including quarterback Josh Allen. McDermott further stated that his first-team would play for approximately one quarter.

Kickoff between the Bills and Bears is set for 1 p.m.