Chicago Bears star QB Caleb Williams says he was not interested in girls as a kid because he was too locked into football. In seventh grade, a girl asked him to call her, and Caleb told her, “I’ve got to train.”

In the highly competitive world of professional football, success often hinges on an athlete’s dedication, focus, and sacrifices made early in life. For Caleb Williams, the star quarterback of the Chicago Bears, that unwavering commitment began at a remarkably young age.

Williams recently opened up about how, as a kid, he was so locked into football that he wasn’t interested in girls or the usual childhood distractions. In fact, he recalled a memorable moment from seventh grade when a girl asked him to call her — and his response was simple but telling: “I’ve got to train.”

This story offers a window into the mindset that has shaped one of football’s brightest young stars and highlights the sacrifices that often go unseen behind the scenes. Let’s take a closer look at Caleb Williams’ journey, his early focus, and how that discipline propelled him from a dedicated youth athlete to an NFL quarterback.

The Early Years: A Childhood Defined by Football

Caleb Williams grew up in a household where football was more than just a game — it was a way of life. From the time he could walk, Williams was drawn to the sport’s challenge, excitement, and camaraderie. Coaches and teammates quickly recognized his natural talent and leadership qualities, but it was his mindset that truly set him apart.

While many kids in middle school might be navigating social circles, schoolwork, and early crushes, Williams was already treating football as a full-time commitment. His focus wasn’t on fleeting interests like dating or popularity but rather on the grind required to excel.

“I always knew I wanted to be great at football,” Williams shared in a recent interview. “So I just put everything into it.”

This singular focus would influence many of his decisions during those formative years — including his now-famous seventh-grade response to a girl who asked him to call her.

The Seventh-Grade Moment: “I’ve Got to Train”

The story of Williams turning down a young admirer to concentrate on football might sound amusing at first, but it’s a defining anecdote about his character and priorities.

In seventh grade, a girl asked him to call her — a typical gesture of middle school interest. But rather than feeling flattered or distracted, Williams replied with a straightforward explanation:

“I’ve got to train.”

This simple statement reveals the discipline that guided his choices even at such a young age. For many, balancing school, social life, and sports is a challenge — but Williams chose to prioritize his passion over distractions.

This moment wasn’t about rejecting social connection; it was about commitment. It was a promise to himself that football would be his path, and he was willing to put in the hard work necessary to succeed.

How Early Discipline Shaped His Path

Williams’ focus in middle school laid the foundation for a remarkable high school career. He became a standout player, quickly gaining attention for his strong arm, athleticism, and football IQ.

His coaches often remarked on his work ethic — Williams was known to arrive early and stay late, dedicating hours to film study, conditioning, and perfecting his mechanics.

By the time he reached high school, it was clear that his mindset from seventh grade was no fluke. He was locked in, driven by a purpose bigger than the typical adolescent experience.

High School Success: The Fruit of Focus

Caleb Williams attended Duncanville High School in Texas, one of the premier football programs in the country. There, his dedication paid off with exceptional success.

Williams led Duncanville to a state championship and earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Gatorade Player of the Year award for Texas. His ability to read defenses, combined with his arm talent and mobility, made him one of the most highly recruited quarterbacks in the nation.

Recruiters praised not only his physical skills but also his maturity and leadership. Williams’ early choice to focus on football rather than distractions helped him develop the mental toughness necessary to handle pressure and expectations.

The College Decision and Continued Commitment

Williams’ journey continued at the collegiate level when he committed to the University of Oklahoma, a program known for producing elite quarterbacks. There, his focus on football intensified even more.

He quickly earned the starting role and impressed fans and scouts alike with his poise, playmaking ability, and consistency.

Throughout his college career, Williams often spoke about the sacrifices he made along the way, including time away from friends and typical teenage experiences, all in pursuit of a professional dream.

Transition to the NFL: A Dream Realized

Williams’ hard work culminated in being drafted by the Chicago Bears, where he now serves as their starting quarterback. His journey from a seventh grader focused on training to an NFL star is an inspiring testament to the power of dedication.

While many players rely on natural talent alone, Williams’ story emphasizes the importance of mindset, preparation, and discipline.

Reflections on Priorities: What Kids Can Learn

Williams’ anecdote about turning down a girl to focus on training offers more than just a funny story. It offers lessons for young athletes and anyone chasing a dream.

• Discipline is Key: Early commitment sets the stage for later success.
• Sacrifice is Necessary: Sometimes, focusing on one goal means temporarily putting aside other interests.
• Long-Term Vision Matters: Choosing to prioritize training at 12 years old shows remarkable foresight.

Parents, coaches, and young athletes can look at Williams’ path as an example of how dedication can lead to extraordinary results.

Balancing Life and Ambition

Of course, focusing solely on one passion can have challenges. Some might wonder if Williams missed out on normal childhood experiences.

Williams himself acknowledges that while football was a priority, he still valued his family and friendships. His support system helped keep him grounded and balanced.

“I wasn’t ignoring everything else — just making sure football was my main focus. But I always had people who supported me.”

This balance is critical for young athletes to avoid burnout and maintain mental health.

What’s Next for Caleb Williams?

As Williams continues his career with the Chicago Bears, fans can expect his relentless work ethic and focus to remain constants.

He has expressed a desire to be not only a great player but also a leader and role model for the next generation.

His story — from a boy who said “I’ve got to train” instead of dialing a phone number — underscores the sacrifices behind professional success.

Caleb Williams’ journey from a kid obsessed with training to a star NFL quarterback is a powerful reminder of what dedication can achieve.

His choice in seventh grade to prioritize football over typical childhood distractions was a small moment that reflected a larger commitment — one that continues to shape his life and career.

For anyone dreaming big, Williams’ story shows that sometimes saying no to distractions and yes to hard work is the key to greatness.