Quarterback Showdown: Bears’ Williams Faces Commanders’ Daniels Again

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The highly anticipated rematch between quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels is set for Monday night, as the Chicago Bears (2-2) will face the Washington Commanders (3-2) for the second time in their careers at 8:15 p.m. on ABC. This matchup comes almost a year after their first meeting, which ended dramatically with Daniels throwing a game-winning Hail Mary pass.

Last season, Daniels, who was drafted second overall in 2024, solidified his status as a rising star in the NFL. He not only secured the Offensive Rookie of the Year title but also led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game. His stellar performance included a memorable 52-yard touchdown pass to close out the game against the Bears, marking one of the finest seasons ever for a rookie quarterback.

Conversely, Williams, the first overall pick in the same draft, had a tumultuous rookie year. His team, the Bears, suffered through a 10-game losing streak that led to the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. Despite leading a 10-play touchdown drive in the same game against the Commanders, the Bears’ late-game struggles began a downward spiral for his season.

As the Bears head into Week 6 after winning two straight games, they believe they have made significant strides under new head coach Ben Johnson. Coach Johnson’s emphasis on structure could potentially help Williams thrive, though he has faced accuracy issues early in the season. Williams has acknowledged his struggles and noted improvement in his game, particularly during the Bears’ recent victories.

Daniels, on the other hand, has continued to impress with his work ethic and consistent performance. Known for his routine, he arrives at the facility early each day and maintains a focus on making the right decisions during games. His ability to perform under pressure is complemented by his offensive team, which has rallied around his leadership.

Statistically, both quarterbacks have had different paths so far: Daniels with 4,232 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, while Williams has accumulated 4,468 yards with 28 touchdowns but has struggled more significantly in completion percentage, ranking among the worst in the league. This game represents a crucial moment for both players as they aim to establish themselves as top talents in the league.

William’s previous head coach claimed quarterbacks can either be “artists” or “surgeons,” and the organization is now looking for him to perform as the latter. Meanwhile, Daniels’ journey as a frontrunner in the league continues to gather momentum, leaving many to wonder if the Bears made the right choice with their first overall pick last year.