The moment has arrived: the Chicago Bears are about to start their 2024 season against the Tennessee Titans this Sunday afternoon, marking a highly anticipated event.
This game will feature the regular season debut of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
The former USC star and top draft pick has infused Chicago, both the team and its fans, with renewed enthusiasm. His arrival has even brought a fresh dynamic to the league overall.
Having a player with such a larger-than-life presence join the league adds another reason for fans to be excited about the sport. Williams has not only embraced the spotlight but has also handled it with grace, working diligently and supporting his teammates.
Before his first regular season game, Williams will achieve a significant milestone: USC has announced that they are retiring his college jersey, number 13. Additionally, Reggie Bush, a former Trojan great, will be honored alongside Williams’ number.
Caleb Williams is unlikely to have his Bears jersey retired, and here’s why. The Chicago Bears’ history with quarterbacks is well-known among fans, and despite over a century of trying, the team has yet to find a true franchise quarterback. They’ve come close at times but haven’t quite nailed it.
Enter Williams.
Even if Williams turns out to be exceptional, it’s improbable that the Bears will retire his number 18 jersey. The Bears, along with the New York Giants, have retired more jerseys than any other team, with a total of 14. After retiring Mike Ditka’s number 89, the Bears decided to halt the practice.
Therefore, Williams might only see his USC jersey retired. However, that’s not necessarily a setback. Williams’ ultimate goal is football greatness. If he can lead the Bears to a Super Bowl victory or multiple championships, he will undoubtedly become a franchise icon and could even find himself enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday.
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