LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — After a couple one-year stops, Bears veteran pass rusher DeMarcus Walker was grateful this offseason to return to his incumbent team for the first time since 2020. After dealing with transitions and moves in recent years, he’s eager to see what the future holds for himself and the Bears.
Walker knew well that a key part of the Bears’ future rested on their quarterback decision this offseason, one that was finalized after Chicago traded Justin Fields in March and then selected Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft in late April.
As he listened to analysis of Williams and his fit in Chicago, Walker discovered what he views as false, unfortunate narratives about his new teammate that seemed to take on a life of their own. The 22-year-old Williams was characterized by some as being high-maintenance, but that isn't the case, Walker said while explaining what he has learned about Williams since getting to know him.
"I don’t like how they made him this type of prima donna type thing,” Walker said Monday. “When you get to know this kid and sit down and talk with him – sit down and get to know him, good kid, man. I can’t wait to see what he does. I can’t wait to see what he does. Special arm talent and this offense has so many good weapons around him. Sky’s the limit for that kid.
“See, Caleb’s confident, and I feel like people can use that as cockiness. That’s where people were wrong. You want anyone to be confident in what they do."
During the pre-draft process, rumors swirled that Williams could refuse to play for Chicago or perhaps demand an equity stake in the franchise that drafted him. That proved to be false.
Williams was named the Bears’ starting quarterback shortly after being selected at No. 1 overall. Since then, he has worked to establish himself as a key figure for the Bears while also understanding he’s a first-year player stepping into the league.
"To be a great leader, you got to learn how to follow first,” Williams said in May. “Right now, I’m following all the vets.
Having both ears open and my mouth shut."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.