The Chicago Bears’ offseason is dominated by discussions around quarterback Caleb Williams, as fans and analysts alike debate what it will take for him to emerge as the key leader that Coach Ben Johnson envisions on the field. The heightened scrutiny underscores the critical role of mentorship and player development in the NFL, especially for a quarterback.
During his rookie year with the Bears, the former USC standout demonstrated impressive capabilities, throwing for more than 3,500 yards. However, his efforts translated into only five wins, sparking questions about the quality of guidance he received from his coaching staff.
In a recent conversation that has generated significant interest, NFL Hall of Famer Kurt Warner engaged with a controversial statement from Robert Griffin III—a fellow ex-quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner—regarding Williams’ development under current coaching. Warner’s remarks attracted over 800,000 views in just one day, reflecting the magnitude of this debate.
Griffin III leveled criticism at the coaching staff, suggesting their failure to teach Williams how to analyze game film amounted to “coaching malpractice.” He argued that continued learning is non-negotiable for quarterbacks, emphasizing that a deep understanding of the game is essential, which can only be achieved through effective film study.
In response, Warner contradicted Griffin’s assertion, drawing on his own experiences in the league. “I never once had a coach sit down and teach me HOW to watch film!” he asserted. “I might glean from watching film with them, but no one walked me through it! I watched, asked questions, and developed my own means of prep based on what I needed!” This perspective underscores Warner’s belief in the importance of self-directed learning as a vital aspect of a quarterback’s growth.
I never once had a coach sit down and teach me HOW to watch film!!! I might glean from watching film with them, but no one walked me through it! I watched, asked questions and developed my own means of prep based on what I needed!
Not saying the coaches should not have asked,… https://t.co/oWnoaXbZ4O— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) May 17, 2025
The exchange evolved as Warner and Griffin III continued their discourse on social media. Griffin III acknowledged Warner’s successful navigation through subpar coaching situations, while also highlighting the heightened expectations that Williams faces as a top draft pick carrying the weight of an entire franchise on his shoulders.
You are a hall of Famer because you overcame bad coaching my brother. You weren’t the 1st pick in the draft who has the weight of the entire organization on your shoulders from the start. Because Caleb was and because that staff had their jobs on the line, they should have taken…https://twitter.com/RGIII/status/1923805857973703088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) May 17, 2025
Warner further elaborated on the challenges of coaching within the NFL landscape. He pointed out that while coaches are responsible for guiding their players, the reality is that expectations are immense, and vital lessons are often absorbed, rather than outright taught. According to Warner, branding this gap as “malpractice” may be overstating the issue, given the diverse learning styles that players experience in the league.
My point isn’t that a coach shouldn’t teach those things or at least lay out a road map, my point is I’ve never seen it done so “malpractice” is a strong word! There were a lot of things assumed not taught at NFL level… and those that couldn’t do it struggled often!
So then it…https://twitter.com/kurt13warner/status/1923925663636926918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) May 18, 2025
As discussions surrounding Caleb Williams’ potential unfold, it is evident that the road to becoming a premier NFL quarterback is paved not only with talent but also with tailored support from mentors who can navigate the complexities of player development. This discourse highlights the essence of growth in professional football—it’s a multifaceted journey that requires both skill and strategic guidance.
Related: Caleb Williams’ New List of Dietary Restrictions Makes Waves on Social Media
