The Chicago Bears are just six days away from training camp, yet their two key rookies remain unsigned. Quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze have yet to finalize their rookie contracts, causing concerns about their potential absence at the start of camp, which could hinder their preparation for the upcoming season. Adam Schefter reported that Williams, in particular, presents a challenge as he seeks ways to navigate the Collective Bargaining Agreement for more favorable contract terms.
Adding to the complexity, Williams is negotiating without an official agent, relying instead on a lawyer and business team to handle discussions with GM Ryan Poles and the Bears organization. In a conversation with Colleen Kane of the Chicago Tribune at his charity event, Caleb Cares, Williams clarified his role in the negotiations:
“I’M NOT HANDLING THAT. MY LAWYER AND ATTORNEY AND EVERYBODY, THE HEAD OF THE BEARS, EVERYBODY UP THERE UP TOP IS HANDLING THAT.”
Despite the lack of an agent, Williams appears untroubled by the situation. He must sign his contract before the reporting date, but there is still time—Bryce Young signed with the Carolina Panthers on July 21st last year. GM Ryan Poles is known for resolving contract issues before they escalate, as seen with Cole Kmet, Montez Sweat, and Jaylon Johnson.
Chicago is familiar with first-round holdouts, with Cedric Benson in 2005 and Roquan Smith in 2018, both of whom became successful players, although Benson’s success came with another team. Even if Williams misses some early camp time, it likely won’t significantly impact his career, though he may take longer to learn the offense. The best approach is to let the process unfold, as neither side seems overly concerned, which is reassuring.
