NFL executive slams Matt Eberflus in effort to defend Caleb Williams
By Ryan Heckman
It's only been three games, but many of the pundits, talking heads and uneducated fans are already calling for the head of Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
Those of you reading this and thinking to yourself, "No way," think again. Do a simple search of "Caleb Williams" on social media and you'll find plenty of box score evaluators talking out of their you-know-what.
Those of us who are a bit more level-headed and who have watched the game intently for quite some time may have another perspective to offer, and that perspective is simply this: it's been three games.
In a nutshell, that's the perspective. However, the educated fan knows there's a lot more to it. Whether it be the offensive line, coaching, scheme or a combination of all three (spoiler alert: that's exactly what it is), something needs to change, and it has absolutely nothing to do with Williams.
After the Bears' Week 3 loss to the Colts, one NFL executive spoke to Mike Sando of The Athletic and offered a refreshing, sensible outlook on Williams and the Bears in present day.
The first thing this particular executive had to say is precisely what every Bears fan on the planet has been saying:
“The Bears’ problems, in my opinion, start with the offensive line and the construction of it."
Hit the nail on the head, there now, didn't we? It doesn't take an executive to see the blatantly obvious, but here we are.
Next, this individual went into the Bears' coaching staff, specifically calling out offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus:
“Then it’s Waldron, especially when you look at the other coordinators in the division. He is clearly fourth. The head coach is fourth. Right now, the quarterback is surviving on his own.”
It is only a matter of time before the Bears fire Matt Eberflus
The executive is spot-on. Williams is, essentially, surviving on his own. He has had little-to-no protection. The play calling is atrocious. This team has been underprepared in many aspects.
That's an indictment on Eberflus; not just Waldron.
Look at the trend around the league. For the most part, young quarterbacks are getting offfensive-minded head coaches with a recent, proven track record. That's exacty what Williams needs.
The heartwarming story of Chicago's defense turning it around and the Bears finishing last season somewhat strong is in the rear view mirror, now. It's over. Clearly, the Bears have a Matt Eberflus problem.
There is no other way to say it. Eventually, the Bears are going to have to clean house and find a more suitable head coach in order to help Williams flourish.
The kid has all the talent in the world, but hardly enough help where it really matters. The clock is ticking, Ryan Poles. Pretty soon, it'll be time for drastic measures.