CHICAGO — New insights from a recent Times of India sports feature have reignited conversations about what could’ve been for the Chicago Bears—had they drafted Patrick Mahomes in 2017. Now, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams finds himself facing not only a struggling team but also the weight of expectations shaped by a decision made nearly a decade ago.
Mahomes Thought the Bears Might Pick Him
In a 2023 interview, Patrick Mahomes recalled his 2017 pre-draft experience with the Bears, saying his camp was told that if Chicago selected a quarterback, he would be their guy. While that moment never materialized — the Bears selected Mitchell Trubisky instead — Mahomes’ father had high hopes during that time, telling media that Chicago seemed very serious.
A Stark Contrast Between Two Careers
Instead of Mahomes, who went on to become a three-time Super Bowl MVP, the Bears chose a different path — one that fans have long questioned. Now in 2024, rookie Caleb Williams is trying to write a new chapter but has reportedly faced major challenges.
Williams finished his first season with 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 87.8, despite enduring a 10-game losing streak and what his camp described as a lack of coaching support. According to Times of India, Williams told his father, “I just turn [the film] on,” with no clear guidance from the staff.
“Mahomes Got Lucky,” Say Fans
Social media commentary from NFL fans suggests widespread belief that Mahomes’ career would’ve looked very different had he landed in Chicago. Some even called him “lucky” to have avoided the Bears’ quarterback carousel. “He thanks God every day that they didn’t [draft him],” wrote one fan online.
Caleb Williams Carries the Weight of the Past
As the Bears look to rebuild once again, Williams’ journey is being compared to Mahomes — a standard that’s both unfair and motivating. While Mahomes has notched over 32,000 career passing yards, Williams is still laying his foundation under pressure and scrutiny.
This report not only underscores the magnitude of a draft decision, but also how team culture, leadership, and long-term planning can define — or derail — a quarterback’s path.
A Wake-Up Call for the Franchise and the Fans
The lesson is clear: talent alone isn’t enough. The development environment matters, and the Chicago Bears have a responsibility to invest in their young quarterback with the right structure and support.
As fans look forward, perhaps the hope lies not in what could’ve been — but in what can still be built with patience, leadership, and the right vision for Caleb Williams.
What do you think the Bears need to finally turn things around? Share your thoughts below or message us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
