Caleb Williams Week 18 QB Grade vs. Lions: A Promising Finish in a Tough Finale

Caleb Williams Week 18 QB Grade vs. Lions: A Promising Finish in a Tough Finale
Caleb Williams closed out his rookie season with a performance that perfectly summed up both the excitement and frustration surrounding the Chicago Bears’ future. In Week 18 against the Detroit Lions, the highly touted rookie quarterback showed flashes of why he’s considered a franchise cornerstone, even as mistakes and pressure exposed areas that still need serious refinement.
From the opening drive, Williams looked confident attacking Detroit’s weakened secondary. His arm talent was obvious — tight-window throws over the middle, quick releases on slants, and the ability to change arm angles when the pocket collapsed. The Lions generated pressure, but Williams didn’t panic. Instead, he consistently extended plays with his legs, buying time and keeping Chicago competitive deep into the game.
That said, the rookie experience was very much on display. Williams took several unnecessary sacks while trying to create something out of nothing, a habit that cost the Bears valuable field position. There were also moments where he held onto the ball too long instead of taking the safe checkdown. Against a defense that has struggled at times this season, those missed opportunities stood out.
Accuracy-wise, Williams had an up-and-down day. He delivered some beautiful throws in rhythm but sailed a few passes when throwing on the run. Still, his chemistry with the Bears’ young receivers continues to grow, and his poise in late-game situations suggests the moment is rarely too big for him.
Perhaps most encouraging was Williams’ leadership. Even when drives stalled or protection broke down, he stayed composed, rallied teammates, and continued to attack. For a rookie closing out his first NFL season in a high-pressure divisional matchup, that matters.
Final QB Grade: B
Caleb Williams didn’t dominate the Lions, but he didn’t shrink either. His Week 18 performance showed clear growth, resilience, and elite upside — balanced by rookie mistakes that are correctable with experience and better protection. If this game was a preview of what’s ahead, Bears fans have plenty of reason to believe the future at quarterback is in good hands.