Chicago Bears: NFL responds to QB Caleb Williams’ statement

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 6:02 PM ET

Caleb Williams returned to USC on Thursday to support a new set of Trojans eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft. The USC Trojans hosted Pro Day for 17 former players, who showcased their skills to multiple NFL scouts. The Chicago Bears quarterback was back at Allyson Felix Field to support them.

The Pro Day gave former Trojans a chance to impress NFL teams and follow the path Williams once took. The Bears star observed drills, met with coaches and encouraged players as they tried to boost their chances of being drafted. Williams was seen interacting with standout wide receivers Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane, his 2023 USC teammates.

A transferee from Oklahoma, Williams led the USC Trojans to an 11-2 record in the 2022 season. This was a dramatic turnaround from the previous year’s 4-8 finish. He capped the season with historic performances, which earned him the Heisman Trophy. He also won the 2022 Maxwell and Walter Camp Awards, given to college football’s best all-around player.

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game between the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions.

NFL spotlights Bears QB Caleb Williams at USC Pro Day in Instagram post

On Thursday, the NFL shared a video on Instagram of Williams at USC’s Pro Day. The footage shows the 24-year-old quarterback on the field holding a phone.

“We’re here at USC’s Pro Day. Shoutout NFL. Shoutout USC. The Bears,” the NFL star said in his statement.

In the video, the NFL included the text: “Caleb Williams showing love to the guys at USC’s Pro Day.”

The league also wrote in the caption: “And shoutout @ayeeecaleb

.”

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A post shared by NFL (@nfl)

The scene was similar to Williams’ Pro Day in 2024, except he was the star of the event that year. He drew headlines by completing 46 of 50 passes with ease, placing each throw on target.

He capped the day with a pass of more than 60 yards to wide receiver Brenden Rice and an unexpected 40-yard punt. Those plays showed he was naturally athletic and ready for the professional leagues.

Williams, who the Bears selected first overall in 2024, arrived in Los Angeles following a historic second NFL season. He led the Bears to an 11-6 record, an NFC North title and the franchise’s first playoff win in 15 years. He ended the 2025 season with 3,942 passing yards, a new franchise record.

The former USC quarterback will soon return to Chicago to participate in offseason programs that begin in April. Williams is expected to lead the Bears once again as they chase the 2026 Super Bowl trophy.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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