Kurt Warner went from undrafted free agent to Hall of Fame quarterback by understanding how to play the position the right way. He didn’t have elite athleticism. In fact, he could look awkward trying to run. However, he had a sharp mind, a strong arm, and could throw accurately. Once he mastered operating from the pocket and found himself in the right situation, everything came together. He won a Super Bowl, two MVPs, and claimed his gold jacket. That journey might explain why he holds the QB position to such a high standard. It was true of Justin Fields when he became the quarterback for the Chicago Bears, and now it’s the same for Caleb Williams.
Warner doesn’t hand out praise easily. If you watch his film breakdowns on YouTube, he is not always complimentary of how a quarterback operates. So, it would be interesting to hear his thoughts on Williams. Dan McNeil provided us with the opportunity on The Danny Mac Podcast. There, he asked about the Bears’ new quarterback. Warner laid out all out. While he likes Williams’ ability to make plays with his legs, he was surprised and encouraged by the flashes of skill he demonstrated inside the pocket.
That could be what separates him from Fields, who never truly mastered the art during his time in Chicago.
Caleb Williams doesn’t carry the same stigma Fields did.
People chose to ignore it at the time. Still, there were rumblings in the draft community about his slow processing speed, average pocket feel, and inability to handle more complex coverages. Warner brings up an important point. It is difficult to know Williams’ true ability as a pocket passer because of the situation at USC last year. His offensive line was good in pass protection. His wide receivers couldn’t create consistent throwing windows, and the defense was constantly dragged up and down the field. That forced the quarterback to improvise, finding ways to manufacture points continually.
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He won’t have to do that in Chicago. The Bears have provided him with a steady offensive line with four returning starters. His wide receiving corps includes D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen, Pro Bowl-level players, along with a 1st round pick in Rome Odunze. Tight end Cole Kmet has blossomed into a viable threat as well. This offense is fully capable of helping a young quarterback learn how to play the right way. Caleb Williams is ready and willing to learn. Warner can’t wait to see it.
