Caleb Williams recently revealed his pre-draft interest in joining the Minnesota Vikings, citing head coach Kevin O’Connell as a major factor. The Bears quarterback told reporters O’Connell’s Coach of the Year recognition and Minnesota’s staff made a strong impression during his visit. This confirms reports from Seth Wickersham’s upcoming book that Williams initially hoped to avoid Chicago and preferred Minnesota.
Williams clarified that after meeting with the Bears, he became fully committed to Chicago, calling it a “deliberate and determined” decision. The revelation comes from Wickersham’s research showing Williams telling his father “I need to go to the Vikings” after his Minnesota visit, though he ultimately embraced being drafted first overall by Chicago.
The Vikings had shown legitimate interest in Williams despite holding the 11th pick, sending quarterbacks coach Josh McCown to his USC pro day. Minnesota ultimately traded up one spot to select J.J. McCarthy at No. 10, while Chicago took Williams with the top selection as expected.
Both quarterbacks will get an early chance to prove themselves when the Bears host the Vikings in Week 1 on Monday Night Football. Williams dismissed concerns about the story becoming a distraction, emphasizing his commitment to Chicago while acknowledging O’Connell’s strong reputation around the league.
The situation highlights Minnesota’s thorough quarterback evaluation process, though they’ve fully committed to developing McCarthy after his rookie season was cut short by injury. The Week 1 matchup will provide the first comparison between the two young passers and their respective teams.
