During the Chicago Bears’ Week 2 game, Caleb Williams drew attention due to his reaction to a hamstring injury. Initially, it appeared his injury was severe, but later reports indicated it was less serious than feared.
After learning the injury wasn’t as grave, fans criticized Williams for his dramatic response. Bears staff assisted him off the wet Soldier Field turf, with his leg dragging as he made his way to the locker room, a towel covering his head. He then gestured positively to the crowd, sparking backlash on social media.
Critics felt he exaggerated his injury, particularly when it was announced he’d be out week-to-week rather than for the entire season.
“He showed passion more than injury pain,” said Rob Gronkowski, the former NFL tight end. Gronkowski shared his views at an event in New York City.
From Gronkowski’s perspective, Williams’ reaction was influenced by his lack of prior experience with injuries and his enthusiasm following a strong performance in Week 1.
“Based on his reaction, I thought it might be a Grade 3 strain, which would be quite painful,” Gronkowski added. He noted the difference between a Grade 3 strain, which sidelines players for weeks, and the less severe week-to-week injuries Williams faced.
Despite Williams’ uncertain status for Week 3, Bears’ head coach Ben Johnson labeled him week-to-week as they continue assessment. Meanwhile, Tyson Bagent, Williams’ backup, remains in concussion protocol. However, he joined practice on Saturday, opening up possibilities for leading the offense in the upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
In case Bagent is unavailable, Case Keenum might step in as the starting quarterback for Chicago’s “Monday Night Football” face-off.
Scott Thompson contributes as a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
