According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, reports that Caleb Williams had signed his rookie contract began to circulate on Tuesday, but the agreement was not finalised until today.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Chicago Bears officially announced the news as well.
Williams’ rookie contract, according to Pelissero, is worth $39.4 million spread over four years, plus a $25.5 million signing bonus and a team option for a fifth year.
Just in time for training camp, Williams signed his contract, however it seems he had to give something up to make it happen.
What Was Precluding the Two Parties from Finalising the Deal?
According to the CBA between the league and the players union, Williams’ rookie contract’s financial details were predetermined, but he and the Bears were still negotiating specifics.
Williams reportedly requested in his contract that the Bears not use the franchise tag to him in 2029, when his rookie deal expires. Williams finally agreed to the contract after the Bears refused to do so. It’s important to note that Williams refrained from using an agent during the negotiations.
During his ‘Caleb Cares’ event over the weekend, Williams was questioned about his contract.
I can’t deal with that. That is being handled by my lawyers, my attorney, and the head of the Bears, among others, up there at the top. I’m not in charge of that role.
Williams was still negotiating, so it makes sense that he would be attempting to sidestep the question. Williams’ lawyers are not allowed to speak with the Bears during negotiations because he does not have a recognised agent, as per NFLPA regulations.
Among other veteran quarterbacks, Dak Prescott’s contract does include a clause prohibiting him from being tagged at the conclusion of it. If Williams had been able to get that in his rookie contract, it would have created a precedent that few rookies get.
Given that the Bears’ veterans are scheduled to report on July 19 and their rookies have already reported to training camp, it is likely that Williams did not find the request significant enough to delay negotiations.
Be the first to comment