Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams drew attention on Monday, and discerning eyes spotted a noteworthy running mate during a photo-op/workout session at the LA Memorial Coliseum. That was not the only mention Williams drew on the day, though.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson spoke candidly about his expectations for Williams in 2026.
Heading into his third NFL season, with the spotlight as bright as ever following the Bears’ resurgent 2025 season, Williams also received a strong endorsement from a rival.
Bears’ Caleb Williams Draws Lofty Praise From Rams HC
Caleb Williams Left Bears’ Opponents in Awe
While Johnson spoke about Williams’ role in elevating the passing game this coming season, including being more effective with his scrambling, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay was offering praise for the former No. 1 overall pick.
The Rams defeated the Bears in the NFC Divisional Playoffs, but Williams made them earn it.
The NFL shared McVay’s comments, along with a clip of that fourth-down play to tight end Cole Kmet.
“He’s a stud. I think, even just preparing for him, watching the crunch time throws, I think he did a great job. Ben does an excellent job, putting a lot of pressure on defenses. But he’s [Williams] doing a lot of different things pre-snap, which takes a lot of coordination and challenging parts for the quarterback. And then, the things that are so impressive are when things go off schedule,” McVay told reporters on March 30, reflecting on the NFC Divisional Playoffs.
“I couldn’t believe what I witnessed on that fourth down and 4. It’s one of the most incredible plays I’ve ever seen. But he seems like he lights up and he’s at his best at the most important moments. Can tell there’s a belief that his teammates have in him. He’s a great guy. So, I wish him the best, except for when he’s playing the Rams.”
Caleb Williams Hits Old Stomping Grounds
Williams was on the field getting in some work at the Coliseum, his former home field during his time at USC. 247 Sports’ Zack Pearson noted one of Williams’ pass-catchers appeared to be Rome Odunze.
A fan noted that the other wideout was Hawaii wideout Christian Vaughn, a friend of Odunze’s.
Still, Odunze’s presence stands out on a day in which Johnson praised 2025 draft picks Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III and the Bears’ expectations for them in Year 2.
Foot injuries disrupted what was a strong start to the 2025 season for Odunze, who was drafted eight slots behind Williams. A healthy Odunze gives the Bears back their big-bodied deep-threat with whom Williams had previously shown a strong connection.
