Rumors that the Bears will take USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft have only intensified since the Chicago Bears traded Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Confidence that the Bears would acquire Williams continued to grow when many members of the Bears attended USC's pro day on Wednesday. Bears general manager Ryan Pauls and head coach Matt Eberflus were in attendance, as well as new Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen. The Bears just traded Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers, and if the Bears acquire Allen, Williams will be throwing to Allen.
Allen attended Pro Day wearing Bears gear and was seen speaking with Caleb Williams' family and interacting with Williams himself.
After pitching at his pro day, Williams said he has known Allen for about a year. He added that it would be “exciting” to have Allen at his pro day after the veteran receiver had his best season in 2023, and that having Allen as a receiver would be exciting.
In 2023, Allen had one of his best seasons overall, recording a career-high 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns, making his sixth Pro Bowl appearance.
Assuming the Bears draft Williams, the Trojans quarterback will have a great wide receiver tandem with Allen and DJ Moore. Allen, in particular, brings veteran experience to his skill set, having played over a decade in the NFL. This is definitely crucial for Williams' soon-to-be rookie QB and could provide Williams with a reliable receiving threat.
Overall, it looks like Williams will be a bear at the end of April due to his performance at USC's Pro Day and the presence of Allen.
