What Patrick Mahomes dodged: Bears’ history of ruining quarterbacks raises concerns Caleb Williams could face the same challenging fate.

When the Chicago Bears selected Caleb Williams as the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, optimism swept through the Windy City. Williams, a dynamic, dual-threat quarterback hailed for his exceptional talent and leadership, represented a potential franchise savior—someone who could finally bring stability and success to a position long plagued by inconsistency in Chicago.

However, as the excitement settles, a more sobering reality looms. The Bears’ history of struggling to develop and protect quarterbacks is well-documented, raising legitimate concerns that Caleb Williams might face challenges similar to those that have derailed many before him. Notably, one superstar quarterback—Patrick Mahomes—was fortunate enough to avoid the Bears’ franchise entirely, a twist of fate that has preserved his path to greatness.

This article explores what Patrick Mahomes avoided by not landing in Chicago, reviews the Bears’ troubled quarterback history, analyzes potential pitfalls for Caleb Williams, and considers what the Bears must do to avoid repeating past mistakes.

The Patrick Mahomes “What-If”

Patrick Mahomes, now one of the NFL’s brightest stars and a Super Bowl MVP, was selected 10th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. What many don’t realize is that Mahomes was heavily linked to the Bears in pre-draft discussions. Had Chicago landed the No. 1 pick in 2017 instead of the Cleveland Browns, who selected Myles Garrett, Mahomes might have ended up in Chicago.

If that had happened, would Mahomes have thrived as he has in Kansas City? Many analysts argue he would have faced far greater challenges due to the Bears’ quarterback development environment, offensive line struggles, and coaching instability.

Mahomes dodged what some consider a “quarterback graveyard.” His story highlights the importance of organizational support in shaping a young quarterback’s career.

The Bears’ Troubled Quarterback History

The Chicago Bears’ legacy is rich with defensive legends and running backs, but at quarterback, the story has been less triumphant, especially in recent decades.

Notable Quarterback Struggles:

• Jay Cutler Era (2009-2016): While Cutler showed flashes of brilliance, inconsistent play, injuries, and a revolving door of coaches stifled his development. The Bears never fully committed to building an offense around him.
• Mitchell Trubisky Era (2017-2020): Drafted second overall amid high expectations, Trubisky’s career was marred by coaching changes, inconsistent offensive line play, and pressure to perform. Despite some promising moments, he ultimately failed to meet expectations.
• Other Attempts: Players like Rex Grossman, Kyle Orton, and Cade McNown also failed to provide sustained success at the position, often hindered by poor supporting casts and questionable coaching.

This pattern reveals systemic issues rather than mere player shortcomings.

Key Factors That Have Undermined Bears Quarterbacks

Several recurring problems have plagued Bears quarterbacks:

1. Offensive Line Instability

Protecting the quarterback is fundamental. The Bears have frequently fielded shaky offensive lines, exposing quarterbacks to relentless pressure. Constant sacks and hurried throws erode confidence and limit growth.

2. Coaching and Scheme Changes

The Bears have cycled through numerous head coaches and offensive coordinators in the past decade, leading to inconsistent offensive schemes. This instability hampers a quarterback’s ability to develop rhythm and mastery over the playbook.

3. Lack of Offensive Weapons

Quarterbacks need reliable targets. The Bears have often lacked consistent, high-quality receivers and running backs, making it harder to sustain drives and build offensive momentum.

4. Media and Fan Pressure

Chicago’s passionate and demanding fanbase, combined with intense media scrutiny, creates a pressure cooker environment that can overwhelm young quarterbacks.

What Caleb Williams Faces

Caleb Williams enters this landscape with immense talent but also significant risk. The question is whether the Bears can provide the environment he needs to succeed.

The Good News

• Coaching Staff Commitment: New head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy have shown enthusiasm for building around Williams.
• Draft Investments: The Bears have invested high draft capital in offensive linemen and skill players aimed at supporting Williams.
• Williams’ Mentality: Known for his resilience and competitiveness, Williams may be better equipped than predecessors to handle pressure.

The Challenges

• Immediate Expectations: Being the No. 1 pick comes with sky-high expectations that could create stress.
• Offensive Line Pressure: Despite improvements, protecting Williams remains a work in progress.
• Learning Curve: The jump from college to the NFL is steep, and the Bears’ historically unstable offensive schemes could complicate adaptation.

Lessons from Past Bears Quarterbacks

Studying previous Bears quarterbacks offers insights into what must change:

• Patience is Key: Rushing Williams into high-pressure situations without adequate support can backfire.
• Stable Coaching: Consistent offensive leadership allows quarterbacks to grow and build confidence.
• Investment in Protection: Prioritizing offensive line talent is non-negotiable for Williams’ success.
• Manage Expectations: Creating a supportive environment that shields the rookie from undue pressure is vital.

What the Bears Must Do to Protect Caleb Williams

To avoid repeating history, the Bears must take decisive steps:

1. Build a Rock-Solid Offensive Line: Continued focus on draft, free agency, and coaching to protect Williams.
2. Commit to a Clear Offensive Scheme: Stability in coaching and system to maximize Williams’ strengths.
3. Develop Playmakers: Surround Williams with weapons who can stretch defenses and create opportunities.
4. Foster Mental Resilience: Support systems to help Williams manage pressure, including veteran mentorship.
5. Transparent Communication: Engage with media and fans to set realistic expectations.

Caleb Williams is a generational talent, and the Bears have a rare opportunity to rewrite their quarterback narrative. However, history serves as a cautionary tale. The franchise’s past failures highlight organizational pitfalls that have hindered many talented quarterbacks.

Patrick Mahomes’ path is a testament to how the right environment can unleash a player’s full potential. Chicago must strive to replicate such an environment for Williams.

If the Bears can learn from their past, build the necessary support systems, and allow Williams the time and space to grow, they might finally break the cycle. But the stakes are high, and the challenge formidable.

For Caleb Williams, the Windy City could be either a launching pad or another chapter in the Bears’ quarterback struggles. Only time will tell if the organization can rise to the occasion.