The Chicago Bears are undergoing a major transformation following an inconsistent 2024 NFL season. During the offseason, the NFC North franchise has been shaken by controversial remarks about quarterback Caleb Williams in Seth Wickersham’s book “American Kings.” In that context, former head coach Matt Eberflus decided to speak up and share his side of the story.
In Wickersham’s book, it is claimed that Williams and his father tried to avoid being drafted by the Bears due to concerns about the franchise’s ability to develop quarterbacks. The 2024 first overall pick did not meet expectations during his rookie campaign.
In response to those claims, which were seen as criticism of the previous coaching staff’s approach to quarterback development, Eberflus didn’t stay silent. He defended himself and explained how he handled his work inside the QB room.
Eberflus’ response regarding Williams
“In the development of the quarterback position, and really all my positions at the Bears, we always had daily coached film sessions. That was all throughout the entire year. So, that’s what I observed. That’s where it was,” Eberflus said on The Doomsday Podcast.
According to Eberflus, Williams did receive proper coaching support during his rookie year. Williams, for his part, had shared his own view, clarifying that his comment didn’t imply a lack of supervision, but rather a desire for “more efficient ways of breaking down film.”
Eberflus’ exit and Ben Johnson’s arrival
The Bears ended Matt Eberflus’ tenure as head coach following last season. During that time, Williams threw for 20 touchdowns and 6 interceptions on 351 completions. For the current campaign, Ben Johnson has been confirmed as the team’s new head coach, beginning a new era in Chicago—especially when it comes to quarterback development.