Trailblazers and Game-Changers: Caleb Williams and the Rise of Black Quarterbacks in the NFL
It is amazing to see Black quarterbacks in the NFL
It is amazing to see Black quarterbacks in the NFL. We’ve gone from a time when the league doubted that Black men were smart enough to play the position to an era when quarterbacks like Cam Newton were run into the ground to now, a league where players like Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes are setting the standard for all quarterbacks in the league.
Would I mention Caleb Williams in those same conversations? No, at least not yet. But it is just a matter of time.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels made history as the first Black quarterbacks selected as the top two picks. This milestone reflects a broader shift in the NFL, where Black quarterbacks are increasingly recognized for their talent and leadership. Williams’ selection by the Chicago Bears underscores his individual prowess and symbolizes the league’s evolving attitudes toward Black quarterbacks.
Williams’ rookie season with the Bears wasn’t a quarterback masterclass; it was more of an introduction to his potential and resilience.
Despite facing challenges, including a high number of sacks due to offensive line issues, he set franchise and NFL rookie records for passing attempts and yards.
His franchise records include the most passing attempts in a season (562), most passing yards by a rookie (3,541), most completions by a rookie (351), most touchdown passes by a rookie (20), highest passer rating by a rookie (87.8), and tied for the most 300-yard passing games (4).
He didn’t just set records for the Bears. He also set the NFL rookie record for the longest streak of passes without an interception with 353 while simultaneously taking 68 sacks.
Those sacks may have been a blessing in disguise. College is not the NFL, and rookies often face a learning curve. Pushing through offensive line troubles ultimately increased his ability to read defenses, process information quickly, and make smart decisions. His ability to scan the field and find the best target—even under pressure—is a hallmark of his game.
Besides, if he can’t throw the ball, he can always pull it down and run. Although he had no rushing touchdowns this season, he still advanced the ball by rushing for 489 yards.
Having poise under pressure is not something you can truly teach. It comes when the player has confidence in their ability to see a play through. This is an area where Williams repeatedly proved that his star power is on the rise.
His performance exemplifies the dynamic skill set that modern Black quarterbacks bring to the game, combining athleticism with strategic acumen.
Four years after Jalen Hurts was drafted in the second round by the Philadelphia Eagles, he has solidified his position as a superstar.
One year after the Chicago Bears drafted Caleb Williams first overall, he has proved that he is the next man up.
Here is to the continued success of Williams and every Black quarterback in the NFL as they perpetually challenge outdated narratives and pave the way for future generations of athletes.
