Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium.
Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Caleb Williams wants the level of team support on the Chicago Bears to resemble that of the San Antonio Spurs during the Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili era.
Williams is gearing up for the third season of his career with the Bears. He shined in Year 2, bringing Chicago back to the playoffs as he almost got them to the NFC Championship Game.
Williams spoke with media ahead of the final week of preseason action. When it comes to keeping team morale in the positive, especially on offense, the star quarterback referred to the Spurs as a focal point of his mindset.
“It's really freaking hard to score in the NFL. You get into games and things like that. It's really freaking hard, so let's go celebrate when we do it. Two, it shows a sense of love and care for your teammates because you didn't get in the end zone. You know you weren't the one getting in the end zone, so you got to go down there and celebrate and have fun and dance and do all these things, come back to the sideline, focus up, and get ready to go do it again,” Williams said.
“it's something like the Spurs with Tony Parker a couple years ago. It's like if it was this stat of like they go around and they slap hands more than anybody, and it's those small things, those small connections, those small moments that build up, and when it comes down to those big moments, something from those moments and slapping hands and going down and celebrating with your teammates. They show up late in games, late in the year, and things like that. So it's important.”
#Bears QB Caleb Williams says it’s important that his teammates celebrate after scoring a TD.
He pointed to a stat that the Spurs, led by Tony Parker, slapped hands more than any other team, and believes those small interactions help build stronger connections on winning teams. pic.twitter.com/eGJH3ylbLj
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 27, 2026
What lies ahead for Caleb Williams, Bears this season
Caleb Williams and the Bears have high hopes going into 2026. They look forward to what's in store for them as they seek significant success.
Williams went 11-6 in his 17 starts, completing 330 passes for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions. In the playoffs, he was successful on 47 passes for 618 yards and four touchdowns and five interceptions. His efforts allowed him to achieve multiple franchise records in Year 2, looking to build on that progress in 2026.
The Bears will seek to improve upon their 11-6 record from the previous season. They also hope to repeat as NFC North champions for the first time since 2005–2006.
Chicago sees the 2026 campaign begin on the road, taking on the Carolina Panthers. That matchup will commence on Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. ET.