Bears refused No. 1 pick Caleb Williams' odd contract request before rookie season

Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles said that he expects "great things" from 1st-overall selection Caleb Williams. Emmanuel Acho and LeSean McCoy discuss the expectations of Caleb Williams in his rookie season.

Chicago Bears No. 1 pick Caleb Williams signed his rookie deal ahead of his first training camp, but it appears he didn’t get everything he wanted as he transitions into the league. 

Williams had an unusual request for the Bears that he had wished to be in his contract: Chicago not to use the franchise tag on him upon the expiration of his deal, according to Pro Football Talk. 

The Bears declined Williams’ request, and he ultimately signed his four-year, fully guaranteed $39 million contract. 

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Caleb Williams, #18 of the Chicago Bears, looks on during Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall on May 11, 2024, in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

It’s not the craziest contract request from Williams and his camp, as several players, including Dallas Cowboys signal caller Dak Prescott, have that language in their deal. However, no rookie has ever had that language in their first deal. 

And if the Bears had obliged, Williams would likely have created a storm of similar requests for the first-round picks to come in future NFL Drafts. 

Chicago will have the chance to pick up a fifth-year option on Williams, which only first-round picks can get. However, as of the current collective bargaining agreement, the Bears can franchise tag Williams twice before needing a new contract to keep him on board. 

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With quarterbacks, it’s very rare for teams to use the franchise