As the Chicago Bears prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams dropped a surprising tidbit during his media availability this week—he’s been in regular contact with none other than the Commanders’ offensive coordinator, Kliff Kingsbury.
Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, revealed that he’s been exchanging text messages with Kingsbury, a relationship that dates back to their time at USC.
Kingsbury, who had a brief stint as the Arizona Cardinals’ head coach, was instrumental in identifying Williams’ potential during his college years and has maintained a strong rapport with the young quarterback as he made his transition to the NFL.
“I’ve been texting him back and forth every once in a while, saying, you know, ‘Great game’ and this and that,” Williams told reporters. The connection between the two, rooted in mutual respect, continues despite now being on opposing teams.
Williams has been a key factor in the Chicago Bears’ impressive 4-2 start to the season. In his rookie year, the young quarterback has thrown for 1,317 yards with nine touchdowns and five interceptions, showcasing the talent that made him the top pick in the draft.
Under the guidance of the Bears’ coaching staff, Williams has demonstrated growth in managing the offense and leading the team to victories. With the Bears just one win behind the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions (5-1), Sunday’s game against Washington carries significant weight for both teams.
On the other side of the field, the Washington Commanders, led by their own rookie sensation and No. 2 overall pick, Jayden Daniels, have been equally impressive, boasting a 5-2 record and sitting atop the NFC East.
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Daniels, a dual-threat quarterback, has thrown for 1,410 yards while rushing for an additional 372 yards, contributing to ten total touchdowns this season. His success is largely credited to Kingsbury’s offensive system, which has unlocked the young quarterback’s potential.
While Kingsbury and Williams enjoy a friendly relationship off the field, Sunday’s game will mark the first time they find themselves on opposite sides since Williams entered the NFL.
Kingsbury, now responsible for developing Daniels, is familiar with Williams’ strengths and weaknesses, having worked with him closely during his time at USC.
This intimate knowledge could give Washington a strategic edge, but it also serves as extra motivation for Williams to prove how far he has come.
For Williams, this game offers an opportunity to show his growth as a professional quarterback, not just to the Bears’ coaching staff but also to a coach who played a part in his development. “He’s always been a big supporter of mine,” Williams said of Kingsbury. “But now, it’s about going out there and doing what I’ve been trained to do—play the game the right way and lead this team to a win.”
Both teams will be vying for crucial victories in this tight NFC race, with playoff implications already looming in the background.
The friendly relationship between Williams and Kingsbury adds an intriguing subplot to an already intense contest, but when the whistle blows, it will be all business as the two quarterbacks, and their teams, face off in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
As the Bears look to continue their strong start and close the gap with Detroit, and the Commanders aim to maintain their division lead, all eyes will be on this battle of young quarterbacks and the connections that shaped them.
The Williams-Kingsbury relationship may be built on mutual respect, but come Sunday, their focus will be solely on winning.
