In the preseason, rookie quarterbacks are put to the test in more ways than one. Not only are they evaluated based on their performance on the field, but also on their ability to avoid injuries. One particular rookie who stood out in this regard was Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, whose debut against the Bills was nothing short of impressive.
One of the most notable aspects of Williams’ performance was his knack for avoiding contact. On one drive, he displayed his willingness to throw a block after making a short pass. Instead of putting himself in harm’s way, Williams wisely pulled back. Later, on a scramble, he made the smart decision to slide to a stop, protecting himself from potential hits.
It may seem like a simple concept, but not all quarterbacks have the ability to minimize contact. As the saying goes, too many quarterbacks over the years have fallen victim to unnecessary hits. However, Williams seemed to understand the importance of self-preservation.
The highlight of Williams’ debut came just before he made a remarkable throw. While rolling to the right under pressure from a Bills defender, Williams used a quick pump fake to create space, freezing the defender in his tracks. This allowed him to release a great throw without taking a hit, resulting in a solid gain for the offense.
The key takeaway from Williams’ performance is the importance of minimizing hits to reduce the risk of injury. While some may argue that dropping a shoulder for an extra yard or two is a sign of aggression, it can also be seen as a reckless move. Williams demonstrated a level of maturity and understanding that is often lacking in young quarterbacks.
In addition to his ability to avoid contact, Williams showcased his talent on the field. On the opening drive of the game, he made a clutch throw on third and 12 to keep the drive alive. He also displayed his creativity by flicking a pass to running back D’Andre Swift under pressure.
Overall, Williams looked the part of a franchise quarterback in his debut. For a team like the Bears, who have been searching for a franchise quarterback since Sid Luckman, this is certainly encouraging news. If Williams can continue to play with poise and intelligence, he may just be the answer to their prayers.