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The new-look Chicago Bears squad is officially on the way toward achieving their dreams. 2024 first-round picks Rome Odunze and Caleb Williams have already developed a rapport in the rookie minicamp in what the organization hopes will be the beginning of a long-term partnership.
Odunze sounded off on Williams’ talent, via Collen Kane of The Chicago Tribune.
“It’s really effortless for him,” the wideout said. “He could do a lot of things that older quarterbacks may think is hard effortlessly. He continues to improve every time I see him, and he’s very smooth. He could throw the ball from any angle, body position, anywhere on the field, to any spot on the field. So you always have to be ready, always have to be prepared anytime he is in the backfield. It gives you the confidence that he’s going to put it on you when you’re giving him your best on the route.”
Odunze’s compliments check out, as Williams displayed those abilities plenty of times under center at USC. These offseason reps are crucial in helping the two players develop chemistry ahead of Week 1, which will be a central aspect of the Bears’ offensive success.
How is Williams adjusting to life with the Bears?
Williams also shared his thoughts on how Minicamp has gone so far.
“Right now I feel pretty good,” Williams said. “We’re going to have a few mess-ups probably. I’m working to eliminate those as fast as possible. But you need those things to grow and progress throughout the years.”
This is a good perspective from the 22-year-old, as any rookie is going to have a steep learning curve when entering the NFL, no matter how good they are.
“Because I’m going to make mistakes, and I don’t really like mistakes and messing up,” he continued. “And I know there’s a bunch of guys that are going to be in the same position as me. Being in that position and being even-keeled and being in control — cool, calm, collected — not only helps me but also all the other guys on the field.”
This attitude is probably one of the reasons why Odunze admires him so much. Many young players have issues keeping their emotions in check, but Williams is clearly in touch with the mental side of the game. The quarterback often sets the tone for the locker room, even when they’re young. The former Heisman winner appears to have the demeanor to become a leader sooner rather than later.
On paper, Williams and Odunze have the potential to be a lethal duo. Odunze dominated last season, hauling in 92 catches for 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns as Washington made a run to the National Title game, via ESPN. Meanwhile, Williams amassed 9,782 passing yards and 966 rushing yards to go with 120 total touchdowns across three years in college.
When combining them with stud receivers Keenan Allen and DJ Moore, the Bears’ passing attack could be one of the league’s top units if everything goes right. However, the only way that will happen is if they continue to get these crucial reps in over the spring and summer.
More must-reads:
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