Why Caleb Williams May Not Be the 1st Pick in the 2024 NFL Draft Inconsistency in Performance

By Jason Bolton February 13, 2024 03:53

Photo by Brooks Taylor / Daily Trojan

Caleb Williams, despite being a highly touted quarterback, has faced inconsistencies in his performance during the 2023 college football season. Compared to his impressive 2022 stats, his 2023 passing numbers have been significantly lower, with 235-of-346 passes for 3,249 yards and a 29:4 TD:INT ratio. This decline in performance has caused him to lose prominence in the Heisman Trophy race and has raised concerns about his readiness for the NFL.

Strong Competition from Other Quarterbacks

The 2024 NFL Draft features a group of highly talented players, including Michael Penix, Bo Nix, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye, who are all strong contenders in their own right. These quarterbacks have displayed remarkable skills and potential, posing a challenge to Caleb Williams' status as the top pick. Additionally, the emergence of other quarterbacks such as Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels has further intensified the competition in the draft.

Team Needs and Priorities

The Chicago Bears, who hold the first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, have a strategic decision to make. With the potential to have two top-five picks, the Bears may prioritize strengthening their offensive line and wide receiver corps, especially if they believe in the potential of their current quarterback, Justin Fields. Similarly, the Arizona Cardinals, who occupy the second pick, may opt to address their need for healthy skill position players, potentially leading them to consider alternatives to drafting a quarterback like Caleb Williams.

Unconventional Decision-Making by Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams' decision not to hire an NFL agent has raised eyebrows within the football community and has led to speculation about his unconventional approach to the draft process. His reported desire for equity in his potential NFL team and the possibility of skipping the draft if a team he dislikes obtains the first pick could influence teams' perceptions of him as a top draft pick. This unorthodox approach may raise concerns about his commitment and adaptability to the NFL.

Potential Concerns About Injuries

While Caleb Williams possesses exceptional skills, there might be concerns regarding his ability to stay healthy and perform at his peak in the NFL. The risk of injuries, especially for a quarterback known for his combined passing and rushing abilities, could lead teams to reconsider selecting him as the first overall pick in the draft. This concern might be further compounded by the recent injury experiences of other high-profile quarterbacks in the league.

Despite being a highly regarded prospect, Caleb Williams faces strong competition from other talented quarterbacks, potential team priorities, and uncertainties surrounding his decision-making and injury risks. These factors collectively contribute to the possibility that he may not be the first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. As the draft approaches, teams will need to carefully evaluate these considerations before making their selections, thereby shaping the future landscape of the NFL.

Caleb Williams' status as the potential first pick is subject to various factors that could influence the decision-making of the teams involved, making his position far from guaranteed in the upcoming draft.