NFL Rumors: Caleb Williams' Bears Contract 'Essentially Done' amid Negotiations

It was widely reported Tuesday that Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears agreed to the quarterback's rookie deal, but he reportedly hasn't signed the contract just yet.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported Wednesday that negotiations are still ongoing for a deal that is "essentially done" and will not give the No. 1 overall pick of the 2024 NFL draft "anything above and beyond what first-round rookies typically get."

Florio explained that part of the issue is the lawyer representing the signal-caller "lacks the knowledge and experience that comes from being a full-time agent" as the two sides go over the final language of the contract.

While Bears fans may be somewhat nervous that the two sides are apparently still negotiating, Florio made it clear the deal is expected to be finalized soon.

That is welcome news for Chicago because the hope is the USC product is the long-term answer at quarterback the franchise has seemingly searched for throughout its history.

The Bears are the only team in NFL history to never have a quarterback throw for 4,000 yards, and drafting Williams signaled they are looking to change that. So did trading for wide receiver Keenan Allen, signing tight end Gerald Everett and drafting Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze to bolster an aerial attack that already featured DJ Moore and Cole Kmet.

Williams will have no shortage of weapons at his disposal, and it's difficult to think of a situation better-suited for a No. 1 overall pick to step into during a rookie campaign.

It may not be entirely fair with a rookie quarterback under center, but anything less than a playoff appearance would be a disappointment for the NFC North club. This is a team that went 5-3 in its final eight games last season and brought back many of the key pieces of a defense that played well during that stretch.

Williams' ability to live up to expectations will be the deciding factor for a team loaded with talent even amid some question marks.

First, though, he has to sign his rookie contract.