The Bears May Sign a Revived Former No. 1 Draft Choice to Serve as Caleb Williams’ Backup.
Chicago Bears Exploring Veteran Backup for Caleb Williams
TChicago Bears Exploring Veteran Backup for Caleb Williams
With Ben Johnson stepping in as the new head coach, the Chicago Bears might seek to reinforce their quarterback lineup this offseason. Specifically, the team could be in the market for a seasoned veteran to support Caleb Williams as he enters his second year in the NFL.
At present, Tyson Bagent serves as the team’s QB2, and while he may remain in that role, the Bears could still pursue a more experienced addition to strengthen their depth at the position.
Williams’ talent is unquestionable, but the challenges of the NFL require guidance that a veteran quarterback could provide. A more experienced signal-caller could mentor Williams, helping him refine his game preparation, defensive reads, and overall understanding of the professional level. Additionally, a reliable backup would help ensure the team’s stability in the event of injury or other unexpected circumstances.
According to Bleacher Report, the Bears should consider bolstering their quarterback depth with someone who can step in when necessary while also serving as a mentor. One unique suggestion? A “rejuvenated and inspirational Jameis Winston.”
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Jameis Winston’s Career Journey
Winston entered the NFL as the first overall pick in the 2015 draft, selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Over five seasons in Tampa Bay (2015–2019), he demonstrated his passing ability, leading the league in passing yards in 2019 with 5,109. However, his time there was also plagued by turnovers, including a league-high 30 interceptions that same season.
After his tenure with the Buccaneers, Winston joined the New Orleans Saints in 2020, initially serving as a backup before earning a starting role in 2021. Unfortunately, injuries limited his contributions, leading to his release in 2024.
Throughout his career, Winston has accumulated more than 24,000 passing yards and 154 touchdowns. In 2024, he took over as the Cleveland Browns’ starter following Deshaun Watson’s injury, throwing for 2,121 yards and 13 touchdowns across 12 games. A standout performance included setting a franchise record with 497 passing yards in a single game against the Denver Broncos.
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Is Winston a Good Fit for the Bears?
Several parallels between Winston and Williams could make him a compelling choice for Chicago. Winston won a national championship with Florida State in 2013 and became the youngest player to win the Heisman Trophy. Like Williams, he transitioned from a Heisman-winning college career to being the No. 1 overall draft pick. As rookies, both had similar records—Winston at 6-10 and Williams at 5-12.
Given his experience as a former top pick, Winston understands the intense expectations and pressure that come with such a role. His insights could be valuable in helping Williams navigate the challenges of the NFL, both on and off the field.
However, Winston’s past may raise concerns for the Bears. His off-field issues include a 2016 incident in which an Uber driver accused him of groping her. After an NFL investigation, Winston was suspended for three games in 2018 for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Bears GM Ryan Poles has emphasized creating a strong team culture with minimal distractions, which could lead the team to look elsewhere for a backup quarterback. If they decide to pursue veteran leadership at the position, a more stable option like Joe Flacco—who showcased his capabilities with the Indianapolis Colts in 2024—might be a better fit.
support Caleb Williams as he enters his second year in the NFL.
At present, Tyson Bagent serves as the team’s QB2, and while he may remain in that role, the Bears could still pursue a more experienced addition to strengthen their depth at the position.
Williams’ talent is unquestionable, but the challenges of the NFL require guidance that a veteran quarterback could provide. A more experienced signal-caller could mentor Williams, helping him refine his game preparation, defensive reads, and overall understanding of the professional level. Additionally, a reliable backup would help ensure the team’s stability in the event of injury or other unexpected circumstances.
According to Bleacher Report, the Bears should consider bolstering their quarterback depth with someone who can step in when necessary while also serving as a mentor. One unique suggestion? A “rejuvenated and inspirational Jameis Winston.”
Jameis Winston’s Career Journey
Winston entered the NFL as the first overall pick in the 2015 draft, selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Over five seasons in Tampa Bay (2015–2019), he demonstrated his passing ability, leading the league in passing yards in 2019 with 5,109. However, his time there was also plagued by turnovers, including a league-high 30 interceptions that same season.
After his tenure with the Buccaneers, Winston joined the New Orleans Saints in 2020, initially serving as a backup before earning a starting role in 2021. Unfortunately, injuries limited his contributions, leading to his release in 2024.
Throughout his career, Winston has accumulated more than 24,000 passing yards and 154 touchdowns. In 2024, he took over as the Cleveland Browns’ starter following Deshaun Watson’s injury, throwing for 2,121 yards and 13 touchdowns across 12 games. A standout performance included setting a franchise record with 497 passing yards in a single game against the Denver Broncos.
Is Winston a Good Fit for the Bears?
Several parallels between Winston and Williams could make him a compelling choice for Chicago. Winston won a national championship with Florida State in 2013 and became the youngest player to win the Heisman Trophy. Like Williams, he transitioned from a Heisman-winning college career to being the No. 1 overall draft pick. As rookies, both had similar records—Winston at 6-10 and Williams at 5-12.
Given his experience as a former top pick, Winston understands the intense expectations and pressure that come with such a role. His insights could be valuable in helping Williams navigate the challenges of the NFL, both on and off the field.
However, Winston’s past may raise concerns for the Bears. His off-field issues include a 2016 incident in which an Uber driver accused him of groping her. After an NFL investigation, Winston was suspended for three games in 2018 for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Bears GM Ryan Poles has emphasized creating a strong team culture with minimal distractions, which could lead the team to look elsewhere for a backup quarterback. If they decide to pursue veteran leadership at the position, a more stable option like Joe Flacco—who showcased his capabilities with the Indianapolis Colts in 2024—might be a better fit.
