NFL / Chicago Bears

REPORT: Caleb Williams Asked For Historic No-Tag Clause In Rookie Contract Negotiations, Bears Declined

July 19, 2024July 19, 2024 - by Teonce Joseph - Leave a Comment

The Chicago Bears began the week with their top two draft picks unsigned but that’s no longer the case as quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze both reached agreements on their rookie contracts the day the Bears rookies arrived for the start of training camp on Tuesday.

Caleb Williams signed a four-year, $39 million fully guaranteed contract that includes a $25.5 signing bonus.

Done deal. pic.twitter.com/BCJswKcfgf

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) July 17, 2024

Williams was one of the last first round picks that remained unsigned and we now know why. According to NBC Sports, Williams asked for a historic clause in his contract. The clause was that the Chicago Bears would not be able to use the franchise tag on him following the end of his rookie contract.

The Bears officially declined that as no rookie has yet to secure such a clause in their rookie deal, but Williams nonetheless tried.

Caleb Williams asked for a no-tag commitment in his rookie deal. The Bears declined. No rookie has ever secured that term. https://t.co/MWFdJ16aAk

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) July 17, 2024

All rookie contracts of first-round picks carry four-year terms with a team option for a fifth year. So the Bears have Williams signed through 2027, and they’ll undoubtedly pick up the fifth-year option for 2028 if he comes as advertised.

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