Caleb Williams Finally Signs $39 Million Rookie Contract With The Chicago Bears

The Bears signed their franchise quarterback to a rookie contract on Tuesday. USC phenom Caleb Williams signed a four-year, $39 million deal that’s fully guaranteed. The contract also included a $25 million signing bonus. Rome Odunze also signed for four years, worth $22.7 million.

The rookie quarterback-receiver duo originally represented a handful of the first-round’s unsigned picks – J.J. McCarthy and Dallas Turner are now the only first-round selections to be offered a contract. It’s been speculated that McCarthy waited for Williams to sign his deal before negotiating with the Vikings, though Minnesota is taking their time.

Williams and Odunze are key pieces to Chicago’s roster overhaul as D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen and D’Andre Swift highlight a massively improved squad. Williams’ expectations are through the roof as the pieces are intact for a breakout rookie campaign and a playoff berth. Chicago has never had a quarterback throw for 4,000 yards in a season, but some believe Williams can be the guy who does this. Chicago came close to making the playoffs in 2023 with nearly the same squad, and by having a quarterback like Williams, the Bears can go over the hump if Williams plays at a high level.

Williams began his collegiate career as an Oklahoma Sooner. In Norman, the signal caller threw for 1,912 yards, 21 touchdowns and four interceptions. He eventually transferred to USC, and it was the right move for Williams as he won the Heisman Trophy in 2022. Williams threw for over 4,500 yards, 42 touchdowns and five interceptions while rushing for 382 yards.

Odunze was selected ninth overall by the Bears in the 2024 NFL draft. The ex-Washington Husky led his team in receiving yards in 2022, recording 1,145 yards in his junior season. In 2023, Odunze caught 81 passes from Michael Penix Jr. for 1,640 yards while hauling in 13 touchdowns.

Regardless of how 2024 goes, Chicago’s future is bright.