Caleb Williams Reportedly Wants Surprise Contingent to Sign His Contract
The Chicago Bears were one of the most improved teams on paper this offseason. After going 7-10 in 2023 and failing to reach the postseason for the third straight season, GM Ryan Poles reshaped the roster.
They made quality additions in free agency and the trade market before putting the final touches in the NFL Draft.
Back in April, the Bears took Caleb Williams with the first overall pick to make him the next franchise quarterback. Now as we fast forward a few months, teams are getting ready for training camp.
Bears rookies began reporting to the facility on July 17. Williams and Chicago reportedly agreed to a four-year, fully guaranteed deal of $39 million with a $25 million signing bonus but it sounds like they have hit a minor roadblock that is preventing them from crossing the finish line.
interesting update from @ProFootballTalk on the @670TheScore: Florio said that Caleb's team asked the Bears to agree to not use the franchise tag on him (they did not agree) and that as of now, he has not signed, but contract is in hand and they are going over final language.
— Kalyn Kahler (@kalynkahler) July 17, 2024
Bears News: Caleb Williams’ Team Asked for No Franchise Tag
Per Mike Florio, Williams' camp asked the Bears not to use the franchise tag but Chicago didn't agree.
That seems to be the final holdup from the deal getting done. Williams asking for this is a bit surprising since it's typically not something that gets included. Franchise tags were created to help the team keep a player around for another year if they can't agree on a long-term deal.
The USC product wants to avoid that whole fiasco if he can but it would be unprecedented. Teams love having the option of keeping a player around and Chicago wants that power over Williams. Let's see if they will budge off that stance as training camp is officially underway.
You want your rookie quarterback to be a part of every meeting, lift, and practice that he can during training camp as you prepare for an intense 2024 season.
But until they tighten up the loose ends, Williams won't put pen to paper.
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