Category: Latest Bears News

Kevin Byard’s message to Bears rookie Caleb Williams after rough practice

Following a rough practice, Kevin Byard told Caleb Williams the Bears defense is going to “keep making him better.”

The Chicago Bears kicked off organized team activities this week, which gave rookie quarterback Caleb Williams his first opportunity to practice with his veteran teammates.

While Williams and the offense had a strong outing on Monday, it sounds like the defense has been ahead of the offense at this point of the offseason, as expected. Which makes sense considering they’re in the third year of Matt Eberflus’ defense while the offense is still learning Shane Waldron’s new scheme.

Thursday’s practice, which was open to the media, was a rough outing for Williams and the offense. Down two starting receivers (Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze) and offensive linemen (Darnell Wright and Nate Davis), there were a lot of incomplete passes, interceptions and red-zone inefficiency during team drills.

“The first day. The offense really got after us,” said safety Kevin Byard. “[Williams] made some good throws. Some deep passes. He had a really good day. Today, we got after him.”

Following that rough practice on Thursday, Byard had a message for the rookie quarterback about the benefit of those kind of days.

“Not necessarily saying that he [Williams] had a terrible day, but days like this are gonna make you better,” Byard said. “So that’s our job and, like I said, obviously, just the first three days of practice he’s done a lot of positive things. He’s made some really great throws. Just coming in with that swag as a rookie quarterback, he doesn’t seem flustered by anything, so that’s exciting to see.”

Byard said the defense will continue to “make it as hard as possible” on Williams, which will ultimately benefit the team in the long run.

It’s far too early to overreact to May practices where Williams is getting his first action in Waldron’s offense. But going against a top defense in practice every day will be key for Williams as he acclimates to the NFL.

Bears hint that Rome Odunze was No. 2 on their draft board

Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham may have revealed that Rome Odunze was the second-highest player on their draft board.

It’s been almost a month since the Chicago Bears made their five selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, but we are finally seeing how the sausage was made when it came to the process. On Thursday evening, the Bears released the latest installment of 1920 Football Drive, their video series that goes behind the scenes of the team throughout the year.

This latest episode focused on the draft and what led to them selecting quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze in the first round. Williams was always a certainty given the Bears had the No. 1 overall pick and had already done extensive work prior to the draft to get him up to speed, but Odunze was much more of a wild card. General manager Ryan Poles had to sweat it out while watching teams like the Los Angeles Chargers, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans pick ahead of them, hoping they would pass on the receiver.

They lucked into a surprise when the Atlanta Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the pick in front of them, leaving Odunze ripe for the taking. After making the selection, the front office celebrated, and assistant general manager Ian Cunningham made an interesting remark as he and Poles embraced in a hug. “Number one and number two player, though.”

Did Cunningham reveal that Odunze was No. 2 on the Bears’ draft board? It certainly seems that way. The Washington standout was a top-10 player according to most draft analysts, and a few, such as NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, had him as high as No. 3. Odunze was in the same class as Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers, but his skillset and character fit what the Bears were looking for. Odunze led the FBS in receiving yards during the 2023 season with 1,640 yards and added 13 touchdowns for the Huskies during their run to the National Championship game.

It’s also possible the Bears omitted a player like Harrison, who was a near lock to go within the top-five picks and was selected at No. 4 overall. Still, Cunningham makes it sound like Odunze was always their top target going into the draft. His comment was made in the moment too, so there isn’t any sort of revisionist history after the fact. Based on the entire front office’s reaction when he fell into their lap, it’s quite believable. “We didn’t have to give up anything!” Poles remarked after the selection. “I can’t believe it,” head coach Matt Eberflus exclaimed.

The Bears seemingly found a way to land their two top players going into the draft with picks No. 1 and No. 9 and without needing to trade up. It’s a day that could be remembered for a long time if both Williams and Odunze reach their potential.

DJ Moore, Matt Eberflus talk Bears offense’s early struggles during OTAs

The Bears offense had its ups and downs through the first week of OTAs as they learn a new scheme.

The Chicago Bears’ first week of organized team activities is underway with the players working to get their minds and bodies prepared for training camp later in the summer.

In the perpetual battle between offense and defense, it seems that the defenders have the upper hand this week, tapping into that same intensity they found late last season.

The offense came into OTAs with a few disadvantages, however. They’re learning a new scheme designed by offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, and they lined up against the defense short a few starters.

Bears coach Matt Eberflus acknowledged the team’s struggles as a whole in the first stage of OTAs, but he asserts that his squad is making strides in the right direction.

“It’s not perfect right now, by any stretch of the imagination,” Eberflus said. “That’s defense, offense, special teams. Everything’s a work in progress, but we’re certainly making progress.”

Bears wide receiver DJ Moore has done this song and dance several times through his seven years in the league, and he had a level-headed response when asked about the offense’s early woes.

“It’s frustrating, but we also know that we’re learning a new system,” Moore said. “They’ve been in that system for what, like three years right now? And then they don’t make it no better that they’re out there having fun with it and we’re just frustrated because we’re not accomplishing what we want to. But on the flip side, we know that we’re still learning and coming together as an offense.”

The 2024 rendition of the Bears has yet to be molded into a product that can seriously compete this year. They have several months of sculpting to do before they’re put to the test in Week 1.

Bears rookies Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze make appearance at White Sox game

The Chicago White Sox hosted the Bears rookies on Thursday evening, including Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze.

The Chicago White Sox began a homestead on Thursday night and they had some special guests in attendance for the game.

The White Sox got set to take on the the Baltimore Orioles, who have one of the best records in Major League Baseball. It is going to be a tough series for the Southsiders as they continue a tough season, but the good news is that fans have the new-look Chicago Bears to look forward to this fall, which includes all of the new rookies that are hoping to impact the squad going forward.

The Bears’ rookie class was at the White Sox game on Thursday, including first-round picks Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze, and took the mound for the first pitch. Odunze took the ball himself and fired an outside pitch to Nicky Lopez.

Williams and Odunze are going to be key pieces of the Chicago sports scene for a long time. It is great to see them making their way around the city so everyone can see them before the season starts. It is also beneficial for the White Sox and other teams in town to have them.

The city needs a winner. It has been a while since they’ve had one, but the Bears provide hope that one will be coming soon. Williams and Odunze, in particular, have that star-like feel to them. Perhaps they can even rub off on the White Sox and bring them back to relevance.

 

 

Bears aren’t holding back with Caleb Williams: ‘We’re giving him the whole offense’

Bears’ OTAs continue this week, and head coach Matt Eberflus talked about his rookie QB Caleb Williams.

The Chicago Bears played football Thursday and, while it wasn’t a regular season game in front of thousands of fans at Soldier Field, they are in the first phase of preparation for what should be an exciting year.

Organized team activities kicked off this week at Halas Hall, where many Bears starters participated in the voluntary practices, giving veterans and rookies alike their first taste of football action in months.

The 2024 rookie draft class is in the spotlight through the first few practices, with many eager to see if rookie quarterback Caleb Williams will look every bit the wildly talented passer that he was last year with USC.

While Williams had his way with the defense on the first day of OTAs, per safety Kevin Byard, the defense fought back on Thursday. The offense struggled to move the ball against a much more experienced defense, as they learn Shane Waldron’s new offense and were down two starting wide receivers and two offensive linemen.

The leap from college to the NFL is massive; most rookies struggle to make the adjustment at first. But the Bears also aren’t taking things slow when it comes to Williams’ acclimation to the offense.

“We’re not holding back,” coach Matt Eberflus said. “We’re giving him a lot of information. We’re giving him the offense and you want to be able to go through the whole offense before the offseason gets done, primarily most of it, and work it into the summer. We’ll have a plan for him there and work him into training camp and then go from there.”

It’s easy to fall into the trap of scrutinizing every throw, catch, block and tackle when the fans have extremely limited access to what goes on behind the often-closed doors of Halas Hall.

It’s important to remember that the Bears have had several months off away from football — most of them did only light workouts to stay in shape. Offseason programs such as OTAs allow the players to shake off the rust and get back into playing shape. And, in this case, learn a new offense scheme. The Bears have a long way to go before they’re ready for the 2024 season.

Bears 2024 OTAs: Photos from Thursday’s practice

The Bears conducted their third OTA practice on Thursday. Take a look at the action:

The Chicago Bears kicked off the next phase of their offseason program this week with organized team activities at Halas Hall.

Chicago conducted their third practice of OTAs on Thursday, which was open to the media and allowed some glimpses at rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, wide receiver DJ Moore and the team’s ascending defense that made a strong impression.

Here’s a look at some photos from Thursday’s practice:

Bears OTAs: Keenan Allen, Montez Sweat among those not participating

A few Bears players were not present at Thursday’s OTAs, including Keenan Allen and Montez Sweat.

The Chicago Bears hit the field on Thursday for their third organized team activity (OTA) practice, but it was the first one open to the media, and a few prominent players were absent from the practice field. Wide receiver Keenan Allen, defensive end Montez Sweat, tackle Darnell Wright, guard Nate Davis, and wide receiver Velus Jones were not present. Rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze was in attendance but was not practicing due to a hamstring injury he suffered during rookie minicamp.

Missing two starting wide receivers and the entire right side of the offensive line might have played a role in the offense’s struggles throughout practice. Quarterback Caleb Williams was not sharp on Thursday, missing numerous passes and holding onto the ball too long, according to CHGO’s Nicholas Moreano. Head coach Matt Eberflus isn’t concerned with the attendance, however, and notes that everyone has been in the building at some point during the voluntary offseason program.

Thursday’s practice is the last one for the Bears this week. They will return to Halas Hall on Tuesday, May 28th.

 

Bears WR Rome Odunze expected to return to practice next week

Bears rookie Rome Odunze (hamstring) is expected to be back at OTAs next week.

The Chicago Bears are in the middle of organized team activities, which kicked off earlier this week and run through the end of the month.

There were several notable absences — due to a variety of undisclosed reasons, which is to be expected during voluntary workouts. That included rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, who was held out due his hamstring.

Odunze missed the final practice of rookie minicamp due to hamstring tightness, and it’s clear the team isn’t rushing him back. But it sounds like good news is on the way.

Head coach Matt Eberflus told the media that Odunze is expected to return to practice next week. During Thursday’s practice, Odunze was spotted doing some light work and stretches.

Odunze was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, joining No. 1 pick quarterback Caleb Williams as part of Chicago’s impactful class.

Odunze joins a loaded receiver room also featuring two of the game’s best in DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, where it could very well be a race to 1,000 receiving yards in 2024.

While Odunze hasn’t yet been on the field with his veteran teammates, he’s already gotten to start building chemistry with Williams both before and after the draft, including during rookie minicamp. Once he’s able to get back on the field, that should continue.

How the Bears got a head start with Caleb Williams

Matt Eberflus explained how the Bears were able to get an early start with Caleb Williams during the pre-draft process.

There was never a doubt that the Chicago Bears were going to draft quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft.

That was evident early on, even before they officially traded Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers. And once Fields was gone, they were able to really focus on Williams’ acclimation to the NFL.

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer detailed the Bears’ pre-draft process when it came to Williams, where Chicago was able to get a jumpstart with install once it was clear he was going to be the guy at No. 1.

The Bears used three one-hour Zoom meetings, permitted during the process, to prepare Williams to operate Shane Waldron’s offense. The first one centered on teaching Williams the terminology; the second one was about installing their base (first, second down) plays; and the third one was focused on red zone and third-down plays.

“We wanted to have our install set for the OTAs, and for rookie minicamp, and we wanted to make sure he had those down during those three Zoom meetings,” head coach Matt Eberflus told Breer. “So when he came into rookie minicamp [on May 9], he was very familiar with those installs. We were very fortunate to do that, and Shane and the offensive staff have done a wonderful job of really making it friendly and learnable for Caleb.”

Now, Williams is in the middle of applying what he’s learned on the practice field with his veteran teammates during organized team activities.

It’s been clear from the start that the Bears have made this as perfect a situation as possible for a rookie quarterback. Not only were they able to get a head start on installing the offense, but Williams has an arsenal of weapons at his disposal, including DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, rookie Rome Odunze and Cole Kmet, along with an improved offensive line and top-10 defense.

There’s no denying Williams has been set up for immediate success in his rookie season.

Justin Fields appreciative of Bears GM Ryan Poles doing right by him

Former Bears QB Justin Fields spoke for the first time since he was traded, where he praised Ryan Poles for how he handled things.

The Chicago Bears made the decision to part ways with quarterback Justin Fields in favor of No. 1 pick Caleb Williams this offseason.

Throughout the process, general manager Ryan Poles made it clear he wanted to do right by Fields. That included trading Fields to his preferred destination — the Pittsburgh Steelers, even though it only resulted in a conditional sixth-round pick in return.

“Shoutout to Poles,” Fields said Tuesday in his first public comments since the trade. “We communicated to him through my agent, and I told him where I wanted to be and this was a place I wanted to be, so he honored that and I appreciate him for that and glad he was able to put me in a spot where I wanted to be at.”

Fields, who was drafted 11th overall in the 2021 NFL draft, certainly wowed fans during his three seasons. Even though he wasn’t always in the best situation, whether it was changing coaches and offensive coordinators or a lack of supporting cast. But, when all was said and done, he didn’t make enough progress in 2023 for Poles to pass up on Williams this year.

While things didn’t work out for Fields in Chicago, he’s appreciative of his experience.

“There was a lot of ups and downs, but I appreciate every relationship that I’ve built,” Fields said. “My teammates know that. Nothing but love for the city and the fans and my old teammates and coaches.”

Now, Fields gets a chance for a fresh start with the team of his choosing. But he’s going into the 2024 season as QB2 behind Russell Wilson, who he’ll have a chance to compete for the starting job with. Fields believes the best it yet to come.

“I’m not the same quarterback as I was last year,” Fields said. “I’m gonna continue to get better, especially with the help of [the coaching staff] and Russell. … They’re getting me better every day.

“I have a lot more room to grow. I’m nowhere near my ceiling, for sure.”