Caleb Williams reportedly sought an unprecedented luxury in his NFL rookie contract, but the Chicago Bears refused to concede.

Drafted first overall by the Bears in 2024, a pick they acquired from the Carolina Panthers in the previous year’s trade for Bryce Young, Williams inked a four-year, $39 million rookie deal on Tuesday. Despite securing his contract, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner aimed for an additional perk that would have set a new precedent.

Bears refused No. 1 pick Caleb Williams' odd contract request before rookie season | Fox News

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Williams requested the Bears to guarantee they wouldn’t use the franchise tag on him once his rookie contract expired. The organization, however, declined this request. Florio reported, “As the Bears and quarterback Caleb Williams haggle over remaining language in his rookie deal, there’s one clause that definitely won’t be added. Per multiple sources, Williams asked the Bears to agree not to use the franchise tag upon expiration of his rookie contract. The Bears declined.”

While veteran players like Dak Prescott have secured such commitments, no rookie has ever managed to include a no-franchise tag clause in their contract. Williams arguably had the leverage to push for this unprecedented term, but the Bears stood firm.

Chicago Bears players with bright futures in 2024

All first-round rookie contracts include a four-year term with a team option for a fifth year, which means Williams is signed through 2027. If he performs as expected, the Bears will likely exercise the fifth-year option for 2028.

In his final college season, the 22-year-old Williams completed 68.6 percent of his passes for 3,633 yards and 30 touchdowns, with only five interceptions, alongside 11 rushing scores.

Williams is set to make his NFL debut on September 8, when the Bears host the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field.

Bears Position Caleb Williams for Success

Most rookie quarterbacks, especially those drafted first overall, often find themselves in challenging environments. However, Williams joins a Chicago team that showed improvement by winning seven games in 2023.

The Bears have bolstered their offense by acquiring Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen, signing 1,000-yard rusher D’Andre Swift, and drafting prized Washington wideout Rome Odunze with the No. 9 pick. These additions complement existing talents like Khalil Herbert, Cole Kmet, and superstar DJ Moore. With this array of talent, Williams is well-positioned to make an immediate impact in the Windy City.