Coach Says Shane Waldron Is A Perfect Fit For Caleb Williams
When discussing the Chicago Bears offense going into this season, most people are talking about the roster. Caleb Williams sits at quarterback, the first #1 overall pick ever taken at that position by this franchise. Surrounding him is arguably the most complete offensive lineup the franchise has ever pieced together. The wide receiver group includes D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze. Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett form a strong tight end duo. D’Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, and Roschon Johnson form a deep running back room. Yet amidst the excitement of such a talent pool, people forget the most important name: Shane Waldron.
The Bears hired the former Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator to run their offense after Pete Carroll stepped down this off-season. It was a surprise. Waldron hadn’t done anything to justify losing his job. It was more due to the organization wanting a fresh start. Chicago capitalized, believing his experience and ability to elevate his quarterbacks was something they wanted. The obvious question is whether he understands how to get the most out of Williams.
Brandon Lundberg, a high school quarterback coach and scout for Pro Football Focus, explained how Waldron’s scheme is a terrific fit for the Bears’ signal caller.
Shane Waldron works to his quarterback’s strengths.
That was a constant emphasis during his three years in Seattle. Working with Russell Wilson in 2021, he always found ways to let the seven-time Pro Bowler attack down the field. At the same time, he also worked to curb Wilson’s tendency to hold the ball too long, getting it out of his hands quickly. As a result, he was only sacked 33 times that season, tied for the lowest mark of his career. Then, when Geno Smith took over, Waldron adjusted to harness his consistent accuracy and ability to make tight-window throws.
A constant way Shane Waldron did all of this was by never being boring with his alignments. He had a true mad scientist vibe, trying all sorts of wacky and unconventional formations to free up receivers in open space. It worked a lot. Expect him to do the same in Chicago for Williams. The ball will get out of his hand quickly to playmakers in manufactured space, working to get the quarterback in a rhythm. Once that is done, expect the coach to let his young triggerman turn it loose down the field.
If Williams follows his lead, good things will happen.