The Chicago Bears have started training camp. Their first padded practice is this weekend. By most accounts, the offense and defense have traded strong performances, which is a minor surprise to many. The offense is installing a new system with a rookie quarterback. Yes, the rookie is the #1 overall pick, Caleb Williams, but it's still a surprise, given how strong the Bears' defense is. Head coach Matt Eberflus loves the competition. He believes it is making both sides better. The next step is figuring out how to manage his quarterback moving forward.
That includes the preseason. Eberflus said he's eyeing a ballpark of around 45-55 snaps next month, which is usually what starters get in exhibition games. The head coach needs to decide if Williams will get any of those snaps in the Hall of Fame game, which takes place against the Houston Texans on August 1st in Canton, Ohio. Eberflus is reportedly considering the idea of playing Williams in that game. He and the top brass will finalize a decision in the next couple of days.
“Had lengthy conversations about it during that (Wednesday) personnel meeting,” Eberflus said. “Had it with the coordinators before that. Been talking to (GM) Ryan (Poles). So, we’ll make a good decision here soon.”
Matt Eberflus could buck a long trend if he does this.
Recent history suggests NFL teams never play their starters in the Hall of Fame game. That is particularly true for quarterbacks. No projected starting QB has played in that game for almost a decade. Teddy Bridgewater was the last one to do so in 2015. The likely reason teams don't do it is because they want to give starters more time to gel in practice before putting them in game situations. Remember, the Bears will have spent less than two weeks in pads by the time they travel to Canton.
Smart money says Matt Eberflus errs on the side of caution. As much as Bears fans will want to see Williams play, they will have to wait another week. It gives him time to acclimate to Shane Waldron's offense and should help other players harden their bodies for the physicality. Plus, the Hall of Fame game can be a big opportunity for guys at the bottom of the roster to get playing time.
