Caleb Williams Reveals How Long He Hopes To Play For The Bears

The Chicago Bears drafted Caleb Williams because they believe he has the capacity to be a franchise quarterback. Williams made his career goals clear from the outset. He is chasing Tom Brady's record of seven Super Bowl championships. There is nothing wrong with that. If you're setting goals for yourself, you might as well aim for the mountaintop. What isn't clear with Williams is how long he actually plans to play in the NFL. Money is already not a motivating factor for him.

He earned millions in college alone. Those dollars have been funneled into multiple business enterprises outside football. At a glance, it looks like he's already preparing for life after football. This would lead some to wonder if he might plan to exit the game at a relatively younger age, saying 30-32. That assumption is wildly incorrect. Williams was asked about his business ventures and the risk of overloading his plate with too many distracting projects by Esquire Magazine. He made it clear he plans to be in the NFL for a long time.

A really long time.

All of this prompts the question: Why take on so much so quickly while trying to establish yourself in arguably the most ruthlessly competitive league in the world?

Williams is planning a long run in the NFL—“hopefully I can play for another nineteen years”—and insists he’s more passionate about football than ever. But he also understands a crucial fact, one many athletes might ignore until it’s too late: “I do understand it’s going to end.” He doesn’t want to be playing catch-up on life outside football. “Capturing the moment now was important to me because, when I’m done, I want to be able to live the life I’ve worked for,” he says.

Caleb Williams would make NFL history if that happens.

Only six quarterbacks have ever cracked the 20-season mark: George Blanda, Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Brett Favre, Vinny Testaverde, and Earl Morrall. Aaron Rodgers could become number seven if he signs with a team this season. That is pretty elite company for Caleb Williams to shoot for. No player in Bears history has made it past 16 years with the organization. That was long-snapper Patrick Mannelly. Williams would put himself in legendary status if he somehow surpassed that. Chicago would love nothing better. The organization is doing everything it can to set him up for success. His offensive line has been completely rebuilt. New head coach Ben Johnson is one of the best offensive minds in the game. If Williams is willing to make necessary sacrifices, his greatest achievements are ahead.