Bears' defense takes pride in challenging Caleb Williams in practice: 'We all have a vested interest'

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — It’s only May, but the Bears have a starting group on defense that’s already salty , and that’s exactly what head coach Matt Eberflus wanted to see.

During practices in OTAs, the Bears’ defense has been flying to the football and creating problems for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. After each stop on defense, key starters have made their voices heard on the practice field.

The Bears’ defense is working to make practices difficult for Williams, believing it will help his development.

“We like to think that that will be a byproduct of his growth and development,” new Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington said. “Just having to go against some of the exceptional, seasoned players that we have on the line of scrimmage and in our back seven. We all have a vested interest in wanting to see that young man grow and become battle tested and be ready on Day 1. We’re going to give him everything that we have every day.”

The No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft in late April, Williams is leading the Bears’ starting offense for the first time during OTAs, which began last week at Halas Hall. The Bears officially named Williams their starting quarterback almost immediately after he was selected as part of his development track as a rookie.

Williams shined during practice on May 20, as veteran safety Kevin Byard said. But then he and the offense struggled Thursday in a practice that was open viewing for the media.

Byard and his Bears teammates on defense are hoping to challenge Williams every day in practice.

“Make it as hard on him as possible,” Byard said. “Going out there, showing some swag, talking trash, doing all that stuff. At the end of the day, he’s going to have to lead us there.

“But he doesn’t seem flustered by anything. That’s exciting to see.”

The Bears continue OTAs with three practices at Halas Hall this week, then will conduct veteran minicamp over three days next week.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 .