The Chicago Bears went through a transformational offseason this year, bringing in a new franchise quarterback in No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, and making big additions on both sides of the ball to help turn them back into a contender.
Trades and free agent signings brought them more experience, and a draft class loaded with talent and potential has many expecting the Bears to make a quick turnaround as a potential dark-horse playoff candidate in 2024.
The biggest reason for those high hopes is Williams, who brings elite talent to the game's most important position.
“Caleb Williams’ arrival signals the start of a fun ride in Chicago," one rival scout told Athlon Sports for this year's NFL preview magazine , on sale at newsstands now.. "His improvisational skills are off the charts. He’s got a strong arm and playmaking skills you can’t teach."
Other new additions to their offense should help Williams' development, too.
"Williams is surrounded by some solid playmakers with the trade for Keenan Allen headlining the moves along with D’Andre Swift," the scout said. "Rome Odunze’s speed is a huge factor along with DJ Moore’s ability to gain separation."
This scouts still had doubts elsewhere on the roster, praising certain players and position groups while also pointing out potential mistakes and shortcomings that could keep the Bears from reaching their lofty potential this season.
"They should have waited longer to trade Justin Fields. Didn’t get much in return from the Steelers, and I thought (GM) Ryan Poles was impatient. ... Doesn’t feel like the offensive line is good enough yet. Williams is going to have to create a lot off-script when things inevitably break down in the pocket. ... I like the trade for Montez Sweat on a defensive line that doesn’t have enough impact players besides him. ... Classic overpays for off-the-ball linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards. ... Jaylon Johnson is a big bet they’re making. So much money for a corner who hasn’t really proven to be elite yet. ... This defense feels like a group that isn’t quite there yet. ... The mixture of Kevin Byard III and Jaquan Brisker at safety gives Chicago a winning combination.”
The Bears appear to have a solid blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent on the roster, and new additions to the coaching ranks could also have a positive impact on the team this year.
It's clear that their chances of returning to NFL relevance rest on Williams, though, as they usher in a new era at quarterback that brings expectations that are as high as the Heisman Trophy winner's potential.
Related: Chicago Bears 2024 NFL Season Preview: Caleb Williams Joins a Team That’s Ready to Win
Related: Caleb Williams, Bears Have Sights Set on Dubious Franchise Records
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