Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears are entering the 2026 season with growing expectations, but one topic continues to follow the young quarterback beyond football. After being selected as the cover athlete for the latest edition of the Madden NFL video game franchise, Williams has found himself at the center of renewed discussion surrounding the so-called Madden Curse, a long-debated superstition that has lingered around the game for decades.
Rather than embracing concern, Williams appears eager to challenge the narrative. The quarterback has expressed confidence in both his preparation and the direction of the Bears as the franchise continues its effort to establish itself among the NFC’s top contenders. His attitude reflects the mindset that has helped him become one of the league’s most promising young stars and a player many believe is poised for a breakout campaign.
Dec 28, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) passes against the San Francisco 49ers in the first half at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
The Madden Curse has become part of NFL folklore over the years, fueled by instances in which cover athletes experienced injuries, disappointing seasons or unexpected setbacks. While many players and fans still discuss the phenomenon, others view it as little more than coincidence. Williams falls firmly into the latter category, showing little interest in allowing a superstition to influence his approach to the upcoming season.
Chicago has invested heavily in building a roster capable of supporting its franchise quarterback, and optimism surrounding the team continues to grow. The Bears have assembled talent across the offense and defense while providing Williams with additional resources to help accelerate his development. With another year of experience and a stronger supporting cast, expectations are rising for both the quarterback and the organization as a whole.
Chicago Bears Quarterback Caleb Williams Ready to Bury the ‘Madden Curse’
Dec 28, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Williams said he is ready prove the Madden curse wrong ahead of the new season. This is detailed more in an article by Paul Kasabian for Bleacher Report.
“No more of this Madden curse,” Williams said Friday, per Nick Shook of NFL.com. “We’re going to go out and do all the things we need to do, stay healthy, do all the things we need to do study film and be prepared each week, and go out there and handle business.”
Numerous NFL stars who have landed on the Madden cover have endured rough seasons in the following year and/or suffered injuries.
Williams hopes to avoid that fate, but on paper, this could be a great year for he and the Bears. The former USC star threw for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns while leading the Bears to an 11-win season and an NFC North title. Chicago also won a playoff game against the hated Green Bay Packers and nearly picked off the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round.
Williams understands that success in the NFL is determined by preparation, execution and consistency rather than narratives surrounding a video game cover. His focus remains on improving as a player and helping the Bears compete at a high level throughout the season. That approach has resonated with teammates and supporters who view him as a leader capable of guiding the franchise into a new era of success.
As the 2026 season approaches, Williams appears ready to embrace the spotlight that comes with being one of football’s most recognizable young players. The attention surrounding the Madden Curse is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, but it does not appear to be affecting his confidence. If he performs the way many expect, Williams could turn one of the NFL’s most famous superstitions into little more than an afterthought while helping lead Chicago toward a promising future.