Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Aikman expressed concern about chicago bears Quarterback Caleb Williams on Monday night in the midst of a dismal season that saw the Bears’ losing streak drop to eight straight with a loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Williams took a big hit from Vikings linebackerr Jihad Ward during the second half of the Bears’ 30-12 loss, but the rookie’s mental condition appeared to be a bigger concern for Aikman than his physical condition.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is sacked by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard at US Bank Stadium on December 16, 2024. (Images by Brad Rempel-Imagn)
“When you mentioned we were watching him on the sidelines, he was grimacing and in tremendous pain,” Aikman told Joe Buck during the ESPN broadcast, via The New York Post.
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“And as I watch him, I can tell he’s a defeated guy. I mentioned he hasn’t been through anything like this at any point in his career. What you worry about is a rookie quarterback losing confidence.”
Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown appears to believe that despite the toll this season has taken on all players, Williams is in a “good place” mentally.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams walks off the field after an incomplete pass on third down against the Minnesota Vikings, Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
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“I think he’s in a good situation mentally,” Brown said Tuesday. “Of course, he’s frustrated like all of us from the point of view of just not getting the result. But the confidence is not affected.”
Williams has been sacked a total of 58 times this season, the most in the league, just eight shy of the franchise record for sacks allowed.
“I think I have a couple bruises and bruises,” Williams said after the game, adding that he doesn’t think the sacks impacted him “mentally.”
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams passes under pressure from Minnesota Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel at US Bank Stadium on December 16, 2024. (Images by Brad Rempel-Imagn)
Williams said Monday that his rookie season has been “frustrating and encouraging” despite going 4-12, at the bottom of the standings. NFC North, and out of the playoffs.
