It feels like every month a new story surfaces about Caleb Williams rookie year. The latest comes from highly respected NFL writer Tyler Dunne, founder of Go Long. His article compiles numerous quotes and details from Williams first season, and to put it bluntly, it paints him in a very negative light.
The piece is part of a three-part series titled “House of Dysfunction” that explores the Chicago Bears internal struggles, beginning with Williams 2024 season. According to former Bears coaches, Williams had trouble with basic tasks during OTAs, forcing the staff to simplify the playbook and even adjust snap counts to suit his preferences.
One particular incident on December 26, 2024, during a 6-3 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, highlighted those tensions. Interim head coach Thomas Brown reportedly clashed with Williams after the rookie refused to engage during a conversation on the sideline. Brown became so frustrated that he told Williams to “get back to him” after Williams simply walked away.
The series is based on interviews with 32 anonymous sources, including former coaches and staff members, who suggest that Williams attitude and work ethic played a major role in the Bears dysfunction. Part II, released the same day, focused on the controversial draft process that led to Williams being selected No. 1 overall in 2024. Part III has yet to be released.
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Make no mistake—Tyler Dunne is a credible and well-connected writer. Still, I’m not fully convinced by this portrayal. It’s possible that some of the coaches and staff interviewed simply don’t like Williams or were unhappy with the way last season unfolded. Regardless, I recommend reading the piece. Even if you don’t agree with it, it provides fascinating insight into what’s been happening inside Halas Hall over the past year.
