Caleb Williams is transitioning from a highly acclaimed college star, often referred to as the “chosen one,” into a genuine NFL quarterback for the struggling Chicago Bears. This transformation is highlighted in the latest episode of “Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears.”

In the opening episode of the season, NFL Films documented Williams navigating through the typical trials of training camp. However, he seems to be adapting well as the starting quarterback for one of the NFL’s most recognized teams.

Following an impressive preseason debut against the Buffalo Bills, Williams carried that momentum into a week that included joint practices with the Cincinnati Bengals leading up to an exhibition match on Saturday.

During this week’s episode of “Hard Knocks,” Bears head coach Matt Eberflus reviewed footage from the Bills game with Williams. Eberflus asked Williams what factors contributed to his successful debut. Williams identified three key points: thorough preparation, confidence stemming from that preparation, and staying within the game’s flow. When asked what he learned, Williams concluded, “Practice is harder than the game.”

Williams’ confidence was evident in the following preseason game against the Bengals. Although he started slowly — possibly due to a recurring communication issue with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s microphone — he remained calm, interpreting a garbled play call as “piecing it together.” This was a rookie quarterback’s second preseason outing, and despite limited playing time, he managed to process play calls that sounded chaotic even to viewers of “Hard Knocks.”

The highlight of Williams’ performance came against the Bengals when he completed a stunning 45-yard pass to rookie receiver Rome Odunze. “That’s what the people wanted to see,” Williams told Odunze in their huddle. Following this play, he dodged Bengals defenders to score a touchdown during a third-and-goal situation. Williams concluded his debut at Soldier Field by leading an impressive eight-play, 90-yard touchdown drive.

Williams’ ongoing development is sure to boost hopes for the Bears as they prepare for their first regular-season game against the Tennessee Titans in just over two weeks.

Here’s more from the third episode of “Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears”:

Bears Consider Trading for Matthew Judon

The prospect of pairing Matthew Judon alongside Pro Bowl defensive end Montez Sweat intrigued Bears general manager Ryan Poles.

However, he was cautious not to risk the Bears’ promising future.

Recently, Judon was traded from the New England Patriots to the Atlanta Falcons for a third-round draft pick. “Hard Knocks” revealed how close the Bears were to acquiring the four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher.

A contract extension between Judon and the Falcons was not agreed upon before the trade, which became a roadblock for the Bears.

“We believe he would help us improve with his playing style,” Poles discussed with team president Kevin Warren during a trade meeting. “Given his bicep injury as opposed to a lower body issue, he could still play with the same intensity and explosiveness. However, it does involve risk, particularly at 32 years old.”

Judon played only four games last season after suffering a serious bicep injury. The Bears wanted a contract extension as a condition for completing the trade, with Poles stating, “Our agreement essentially noted that if a contract isn’t signed, he defaults back to New England.”

The Bears ultimately did not secure the trade. Poles reflected on the situation, stating, “We aim to establish sound parameters to ensure our team’s current and future success,” while his advisors sought to remain positive about the situation.

In a discussion with team director of football administration Matt Feinstein, Poles reiterated his stance on Judon. “I’m second-guessing myself, but if we’ve set limits to keep us on track , we did push the boundaries to acquire him,” Poles noted. “But if it means sacrificing all flexibility, I don’t think that’s wise, even if he performs exceptionally. If he racks up 20 sacks, I might regret it.”

Last season, the Bears managed only 30 sacks, the second-lowest total in the league.

Feinstein pointed to the future, suggesting that rookie Austin Booker may eventually take over the pass-rushing role alongside Sweat.

“It’s Judon for a third-round pick and some hefty financial obligations,” Feinstein remarked. “We used a fourth-round pick to secure four years with Austin Booker.”

Behind the Scenes of the Austin Booker Selection

“Hard Knocks” provided an in-depth look at the Bears’ strategy to acquire Judon and revealed the team’s draft-day activities during the 2024 NFL draft. The Bears were actively calling around to move back into the fifth round to pick Kansas defensive end Austin Booker.

With no picks remaining after selecting Iowa punter Tory Taylor in the fourth round, the Bears had to think outside the box. “Hard Knocks” showcased their war room efforts, where they reached out to secure a player they valued highly. After making calls for picks Nos. 137, 139, and 142, they finally secured pick No. 144 by sending a 2024 fourth-round pick to the Buffalo Bills to select Booker.

Booker made a significant impression during the team’s preseason match against the Bills and embraces his status as a later-round pick.

“I’m a sleeper. Not many people know about me,” Booker stated. “I’m going to keep improving in the shadows, and they won’t see me coming.”

Matt Eberflus and His Fun Nicknames

The Bears’ head coach seems to have a penchant for giving out nicknames.

Among the nicknames are “Big Dog,” “Governor,” “Spidey,” “Young Jedi,” “The Canadian Eagle,” and “Herbie the Love Bug.”

One player without a nickname yet is rookie punter Tory Taylor, hailing from Australia.

“What about ‘Crocodile Punter’?” a reporter suggested to Taylor.

“I definitely don’t want that one. I’m hoping to leave my Australian connections out of it,” Taylor replied. “In fact, if people don’t recognize me, it usually means I’m doing my job well.”

It might be tough to stay under the radar when you’re a punter selected in the fourth round. That’s a high draft position for a punter.

General Manager Poles justified the choice.

“He possesses a rare set of skills with a powerful leg that can change the game,” Poles said. “Our goal is to make our opponents uncomfortable, and he’s exceptional at pinning the ball within the 10-yard line. People have joked that his placement skills are reminiscent of golfer Scottie Scheffler, and he has various techniques that elevate punting to a new level.”