Throughout the December twenty sixth NFL matchup between the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks, analyst Kirk Herbstreit made feedback about rookie quarterback Caleb Williams that left many viewers confused. The sport, which noticed the Seahawks win 6-3, prompted Herbstreit to boost questions on Williams’ management skills.
Herbstreit, 55, was on the decision for the sport at Soldier Subject. Within the third quarter, he addressed Williams, 23, who was drafted by the Bears with the primary common choose within the 2024 NFL Draft. Herbstreit expressed uncertainty about Williams’ readiness to change into an NFL quarterback, significantly relating to the exhausting work and dedication required on the skilled degree. He puzzled if Williams understood the significance of preparation and being the primary to reach and final to depart.
Nonetheless, Herbstreit shortly clarified that he wasn’t suggesting Williams wasn’t dedicated or hardworking. He admitted he had no particular data to query Williams’ efforts, however emphasised that these small particulars are sometimes what set nice quarterbacks aside.
These remarks shortly stirred up controversy, significantly amongst Bears followers on social media. Many followers expressed confusion, declaring that Herbstreit claimed with none strong proof. One fan requested, “Why carry it up in any respect?” when Herbstreit himself acknowledged not understanding whether or not Williams was assembly the expectations. One other criticized Herbstreit for suggesting that Williams is probably not placing within the essential time with out understanding the small print of his work ethic.
Some followers went so far as to say that Herbstreit had not performed sufficient analysis on Williams or the Bears’ season. This backlash adopted the poor efficiency of the Bears, who suffered their tenth consecutive loss within the recreation, leaving them with a 4-12 file — one of many worst within the NFC.
Williams’ efficiency within the recreation in opposition to Seattle was additionally underwhelming, as he accomplished 16 out of 28 passes for 122 yards and threw an interception. The staff’s struggles have been evident, and the quarterback and his teammates have been booed off the sphere after their remaining residence recreation of the season.
After the sport, Williams addressed the loss, acknowledging the staff’s frustrations, which predated his arrival. “It’s my first yr. Their frustrations go means longer again than I’ve been right here,” Williams stated. He emphasised that his accountability was to concentrate on profitable video games and to not be swayed by the exterior noise, together with boos from followers.
Because the Bears strategy their remaining recreation of the season, they’ll journey to Inexperienced Bay to face the Packers on January 1.