Williams became the first quarterback drafted with the No. 1 pick to win his first career start since David Carr in 2002. His performance, however, left the quarterback frustrated and vowing to improve.
CHICAGO — With the game ball secured in his left arm, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams threw up his signature Bear claw with his right hand in response to the ovation he received from fans upon exiting the tunnel at Soldier Field.
In Chicago’s 24-17 win over the Tennessee Titans, Williams became the first quarterback drafted with the No. 1 pick to win his first career start since David Carr in 2002. His performance, however, left the quarterback frustrated.
Williams completed 14 of 29 passes for 93 yards, did not throw a touchdown or an interception, fumbled once and was sacked twice. The rookie quarterback was off target on 31% of his throws and averaged 3.2 yards per pass attempt.
«We want to be the most efficient team out there, myself included», Williams said. «Didn’t perform the way that I wanted to. I missed a few passes that I normally don’t miss, all these other things.
«Obviously, it’s great to get this first win. We’re all excited. Went to the locker room, celebrated. I sat down, enjoyed the moment, just watching all the guys celebrate understanding that I need to be better, I will be better.»
The Bears were nearly shutout in the first half before Cairo Santos kicked a 24-yard field goal to give Chicago its first points of the 2024 season. Santos connected on two more field goals, from 50 and 48 yards, respectively, after the Bears’ punt coverage unit broke open the game.
According to ESPN Analytics, the Bears had a 14% chance to beat the Titans before defensive end Daniel Hardy blocked a Tennessee punt with 3:19 remaining in the third quarter.
