The NFL’s top draft pick apparently had an unconventional wish for his first contract.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, quarterback Caleb Williams has requested that the Chicago Bears not give him a franchise tag when his rookie contract expires.
However, the Bears reportedly refused to make that promise.
Both Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Williams agreed to a four-year, $39 million contract that is fully guaranteed and includes the standard option for a fifth year.
Florio reported on Wednesday afternoon that the conditions have not yet been fully met, partly due to the ongoing dispute.
As Florio noted, no NFL rookie has ever been guaranteed that he won’t get a franchise, though Williams wanted to raise awareness about the issue.
Whether it was not hiring an NFLPA-approved agent or supposedly requesting a stake in team ownership, the former USC quarterback and NIL founder developed a reputation as a forward-thinker during the pre-draft process.
Williams was one of two players selected in the top 10 of this year’s draft who had not yet signed, joining fellow NFC North player JJ McCarthy.
Other first-round picks currently out of contract include Vikings edge rusher Dallas Turner and Bengals tackle Amarius Mims.
Given that players often perceive the franchise tag as controlling and even unfair, it’s not hard to understand why Williams would want to avoid it when it could actually earn him money in a more lucrative and/or longer-term contract.
This offseason, standouts Tee Higgins, Jaylon Johnson, L’Jarius Sneed, Antoine Winfield Jr., Kyle Dugger, Justin Madubuike and Michael Pittman Jr. were all tagged after their rookie contracts expired. All players except Higgins received significantly higher payouts.
Recent quarterbacks who were tagged after their initial deal include Lamar Jackson (2023) and Dak Prescott (2020).
Williams theoretically wouldn’t be able to start until 2028 if the Bears don’t pick up his fifth-year option.
The franchise tag for quarterbacks in 2024 was worth $38.3 million this offseason, a salary that would rank sixth in terms of the salary cap for that position in 2024.
For example, if the tag were to be used for Williams in 2029, that figure would likely be closer to $50 million.
The league favorite for Rookie of the Year returned to Halas Hall on Tuesday, where the Bears’ full training camp begins Friday.