Caleb Williams Or Drake Maye? How Ryan Poles Would Likely Pick

Ryan Poles is in the driver's seat right now. The Chicago Bears' general manager holds the rights to the #1 overall pick in the 2024 draft. That means, if this status holds true for the rest of the season, he will have his choice of any quarterback in the class once again. Most experts agree it is a two-man race between USC's Caleb Williams and North Carolina's Drake Maye. Experts see significant strengths in both, and a clear divide exists on who should be the top prospect. The obvious concern for Bears fans is what Poles thinks.

So, I've decided to try evaluating the two based on what we know of his preferences. A few months ago, a video surfaced from the Bears' 1920 Football Drive series of what three aspects the team prioritizes at quarterback. They are accuracy, decision-making, and arm strength. Those three were included in this evaluation. I also looked at Tyson Bagent and what went into his arrival as well. It appears his pocket poise and experience were big selling points for the Bears. So those two aspects were added as well.

Here is how Poles likely sees Caleb Williams and Drake Maye.

Accuracy: Advantage Williams

Both players can throw some absolute darts. However, what slightly separates Williams is his ability to throw them from the pocket and on the run. He can position the ball perfectly regardless of the angle he's throwing from, no matter if it's at the short, intermediate, or deep ranges.

Decision-making: Advantage Maye

Multiple facets go into decision-making. Most will say it's all about how few interceptions they have. This is a mistake since INTs are far too variable. Decision-making is often determined by how often the QB finds the open man and how quickly he does it. This is where Maye gains the advantage. Where Williams usually has a tendency to hold the ball, waiting for guys to come open, Maye can find them with timing and rhythm.

Arm strength: Advantage Maye

Again, neither player lacks in the arm talent category. Williams has no trouble throwing deep. However, the comparisons of Maye to Justin Herbert aren't by accident. When he decides to turn it loose, it comes out like a cannon shot. If anybody can fit it into tight NFL windows regularly, it would be him.

Pocket awareness: Advantage Maye

Williams' biggest strength is his improvisation. The guy is a wizard when he gets outside the play structure. Unfortunately, he doesn't seem as comfortable when asked to operate in the pocket. He can do it, but it's not something he excels at. Maye is far more comfortable in that setting, using his feet to slide away from pressure and going through progressions.

Experience: Advantage Williams

Bill Parcells said he would never consider drafting a QB without 30 starts in college. In that regard, Williams is the clear leader. He's started 32 games dating back to his time at Oklahoma. Many of those games were played against some of the best programs in the county. Maye has started 24 games. While not nearly as concerning as Mitch Trubisky five years ago, it doesn't meet the threshold.

This should give you an idea of how tight the battle is between the two. Each has core strengths. Caleb Williams is the better improviser and more accurate. Maye is the better physical specimen and more comfortable in the pocket. If we're going based on what Ryan Poles seems to favor, Maye has the slight edge.