The 2024 NFL Draft is fast approaching and the Chicago Bears are projected to select Caleb Williams using the first-overall pick. The thing is, former NFL running back and ESPN analyst Merril Hoge isn’t convinced the prospect is worth picking by the Bears and other teams in the league.

During his time playing for the USC Trojans, Williams has set himself apart by rising to the top of prospects vying for the upcoming draft. The 6’1″ quarterback accomplished this feat by displaying a knack for exploiting defenses using his pinpoint accuracy and incredible feel for the game.

Chicago Bears, Caleb Williams, NFL Draft
Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) throws during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports
On the other hand, Williams comes with several weaknesses that might affect his future in the NFL. Some of these include adversity to throw-and-catch football on schedule, being sluggish in progressions, a need to improve his timing on the NFL level and a hero-ball mentality that can be disastrous in certain situations.

Merril Hoge Warns Downplays Caleb Williams’ Potential For Chicago Bears and Other NFL Teams

Chicago Bears, Caleb Williams, NFL Draft
Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) throws during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports
Appearing in an episode of The Herd with Collin Cowherd, Hoge explains why the Bears and other teams should be wary of Williams when the draft comes.

“He doesn’t function from the pocket like he’s gonna have to in the National Football League. He’s a guy who is 6-1. When you look at a dirty pocket, you look at a clean pocket and you look at the different plays that he gives up where he should be throwing the football but he goes and makes a play by running around, you’re not going to survive in the National Football League like that,” Hoge said.

The ESPN analyst added that Williams will only succeed in the NFL if he learns to balance making plays with his legs and the need to stay in the pocket. Hoge also mentioned that Joe Burrow and C.J. Stroud are two examples of quarterbacks who succeeded in the league by playing from the pocket.

The following months will be crucial for Williams as a lot of eyes will be turned in his direction. Whether the Bears select him or another team swoops in, it’s certain the prospective number one pick will have his work cut out for him.

Chicago Bears, Caleb Williams, NFL Draft
Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) throws during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports