Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has yet to sign his rookie contract despite participating in rookie minicamp, OTAS, and mandatory minicamp. With training camp slated to begin with an open practice on July 26th at Halas Hall, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that Williams is expected to ink his deal before then. There's no legitimate reason to believe a contract-related standoff is coming.
“At this juncture, there’s no reason for concern that the Bears won’t sign Williams before training camp opens, which will be a week earlier than usual because the team is playing in the Hall of Fame Game against the Houston Texans on Aug. 1 in Canton, Ohio,” Biggs wrote earlier this month.
Caleb Williams has kept the focus on the field and football since arriving.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) June 6, 2024
Soon, the #Bears QB will get down to business and negotiate his rookie contract as he's working without an NFLPA-certified agent.
This should be a smooth process for all sides.https://t.co/7pr00plmKP
Biggs went on to share the expected financial details of Williams' to-be-signed contract. “Rookie contracts are slotted by draft pick, and Williams’ four-year deal is expected to be worth $39,486,057 with a $25,537,132 signing bonus," Biggs added. "The deal, which should include a club option for the fifth year in 2028, is expected to have a salary-cap number of $7,179,283 for this season.”
Williams doesn't employ an NFL agent, but it isn't expected to complicate negotiations since all rookie contract figures are pre-determined by draft slot. It's worth acknowledging that No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels also hasn't signed his deal with the Washington Commanders just yet. In addition to Williams, the Bears are also waiting to sign wide receiver Rome Odunze to his rookie contract.
Anticipate Williams and Odunze inking their rookie contracts approximately within the next five weeks. They'll both electrify fans at training camp. There's no reason for concern.
Want an ad-free Bears Talk? Become a Premium Bears Talker here. It costs less than a cup of coffee per month!
