Chicago Bears Legend Says Caleb Williams Is “Not Far Behind” Patrick Mahomes
Chicago Bears legend Mike Singletary made headlines with a strong endorsement of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, saying the gap between Williams and Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes is smaller than people think. During an appearance on Up & Adams with Kay Adams, Singletary was asked who he would take first in a league‑wide re‑draft. He chose Mahomes, but he didn’t stop there.
Singletary said Williams is “in that mix” and “not far behind,” a statement that immediately raised eyebrows across the NFL landscape. For a rookie who hasn’t played a regular‑season snap yet, that is about as high as praise gets.
Chicago Bears Have Their Own Mahomes?
Singletary explained that Mahomes is the clear top choice because of his leadership and ability to elevate an entire franchise. But he also said Williams has similar traits developing already. According to Singletary, Mahomes is the type of quarterback “everybody is following,” and he believes Williams is on that same path.
This wasn’t empty flattery. Singletary has long emphasized leadership, presence, and accountability as the core traits of elite players. Seeing those qualities in Williams this early is a major endorsement.
For readers who want more context on Williams’ development, here’s a link to a deeper look at his leadership: Caleb Williams leadership growth.
Ben Johnson Says Williams’ Leadership Is Growing Every Day
Bears head coach Ben Johnson echoed Singletary’s sentiment, saying Williams has become a vocal presence within the offense. Johnson believes Williams’ leadership will continue to grow as he gains more comfort in the system and stacks reps throughout training camp.
Johnson emphasized that Williams is improving daily and that his command of the offense is already noticeable. As Williams gets more experience, Johnson expects his leadership to become even more natural.
Williams Admits He’s Still Learning How to Lead
Williams himself has been open about his growth process. He shared a moment from minicamp when wide receiver Kalif Raymond reminded him that the entire team watches how he reacts to adversity. That message stuck with him.
Williams said he wants to be steady and composed, never too high or too low, because the team feeds off his energy. It’s a mindset shift he’s been working on since his first year in college.
For more on Williams’ mentality, here’s a link: Caleb Williams mindset.
What Singletary’s Comments Mean for the Bears
When a Hall of Famer says your rookie quarterback is “not far behind” Patrick Mahomes, it sets expectations — but it also signals belief. Singletary sees the traits that matter most: leadership, presence, and the ability to elevate a team.
The Bears hope the gap continues to shrink, both in leadership and on‑field performance. If Williams develops into even a fraction of what Mahomes has become, Chicago’s long‑term future is in excellent shape.
