NFL free agency isn't even here, and the offseason has already been a busy one for the Chicago Bears. Not only have they completed overhauled their coaching staff, but the Bears already made massive on-field improvements by acquiring offensive linemen Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson in separate trades this week.
Although the offensive is looking much better than last year, the Bears aren't close to being done upgrading their attack. They still need an improved effort when it comes to surrounding quarterback Caleb Williams with weapons, leading to Chicago fans hoping to see a receiver or two added through the 2025 NFL draft.
Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan is one WR prospect whom Bears fans wouldn't mind seeing added to Williams' arsenal. The promising playmaker is often the first wideout off the board in most mock drafts, however, his high draft ranking isn't a big deal given that Chicago will be drafting 10th overall in April.
Having said that, it doesn't sound like the Wildcats pass-catcher wants to play in the Windy City.
Bears News: Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan Takes Shot at Caleb Williams
During last week's NFL scouting combine, CBS Sports' Aditi Kinkhabwala talked to McMillan about where he might end up on draft night. When asked about who he'd want to catch passes from, the Wildcats WR revealed he'd like to team up with New England Patriots QB Drake Maye rather than Williams.
"I just feel like Drake Maye would be a little — somewhat different that I haven’t caught the ball from," McMillan replied when asked why he picked Maye over Williams.
Although McMillan's words are certainly a shot at Williams and the Bears, his comments likely don't stem from any underlying personal issues. His answer likely stems from his wanting to be drafted as early as possible in April. The Patriots currently hold this year's fourth overall pick, giving them a better chance than the Bears at drafting the 21-year-old WR.
Williams and Maye were two of the first three QBs drafted last year, going first and third overall, respectively. Both up-and-coming signal-callers were expected to be the face of their respective franchises and had to overcome various challenges in Year 1.
The Bears fully trusted Williams as a rookie, starting him in all 17 games. Unfortunately, lackluster roster construction — combined with Matt Eberflus' abysmal coaching — resulted in an underwhelming performance as the 6-foot-1 signal-caller finished with 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns (to six interceptions), a 62.% completion rate, and an 87.8 passer rating.
Meanwhile, Maye experienced a late debut due to Jacoby Brissett opening the year as the Patriots' QB1. Much like Williams, the former UNC gunslinger dealt with a weak supporting cast on offense, limiting him to 2,276 passing yards, 15 TDs to 10 INTs, a 66.6% completion percentage, and an 88.1 passer rating in 13 games (12 starts).
By the time the 2024 campaign ended, Williams finished as Pro Football Focus' No. 31-graded quarterback (67.1), while Maye clocked in at No. 29 (70.1).
While McMillan has the potential to be a top wideout one day, the Bears don't need someone who isn't interested in playing for them. Chicago is better off bringing in playmakers who are excited to play with Williams, whether they're drafted in the first or last round.
More clarity regarding the Bears' WR draft strategy should become clearer within the next month. Round 1 of this year's NFL draft takes place at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI, on Thursday, Apr. 24.