Bears CB Jaylon Johnson on No. 1 pick Caleb Williams: 'He stands out'
The more time Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson spends with No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, the more impressed he is with the rookie quarterback.
During Thursday night’s edition of NFL Network’s The Insiders, Johnson was asked how his impression of Williams has grown after going up against the QB during spring workouts.
“From my perspective, he’s unique and stands out,” said Johnson. “His arm talent and maturity are particularly noticeable, as is his attitude. He has a desire to learn and absorb information, which is certainly impressive. Despite having every chance to be arrogant, he remains humble and grounded. He’s aware of the efforts he’s put in and his self-identity. He conducts himself professionally, earning the respect of everyone in the locker room and the organization for his contributions. I’m eagerly anticipating what the future holds for him.”
Johnson began the offseason backing Justin Fields before relenting to the probability that the Bears would move on from the incumbent and draft Williams. He’d previously explained away comments in March that Williams — or any rookie — “can’t bring that Hollywood stuff into the building.” He cleared the air with the USC standout and has praised Williams since the draft.
Johnson reiterated on Thursday that any pre-draft idea suggesting Williams was “Hollywood” or would walk into Halas Hall with a sense of entitlement was nonsense from the beginning.
The subsequent phase in the process involves Williams’ continued development as a signal-caller and leader during his inaugural training camp.
Bears rookies are slated to report for training camp on Tuesday, July 16.
