Caleb Williams issues stern warning to NFL after worst game of career follows $35k controversy

The Chicago Bears barely survived the worst game of Caleb Williams’ NFL career. But the Bears ultimately improved to 7-2 with a tough win on Sunday Night Football, and the victory inspired Williams to deliver a strong post-game message. “I don’t get gun shy,” Williams said. “That’s not me. That’s not my identity. And with that, I’m going to keep ripping it and keep ripping it.” The former No. 1 overall pick (USC) did just that vs the Tampa Bay Buccaneers . Chicago won 27-24 and remained in second place in the loaded NFC North, only trailing the Minnesota Vikings . But Williams threw a career-high four interceptions and almost threw away the Bears’ seventh win of the 2026 season. The poor outing followed a total of $35,823 in fines from the NFL due to a uniform violation involving Caddix cleats. “I’m going to throw until I can’t throw anymore. That’s how I live,” Williams said. “I work my tail off to be in this position. I’ll never not throw the ball. I could throw 100 picks in one game, if it comes down to it I’m gonna throw that pass that I threw to Colston (Loveland) or if it’s a tighter window, I’m going to rip it in there. That’s how I grew up, that’s what I am.” Williams has been one of the NFL’s most unique quarterbacks since he entered the league in 2024. The Heisman Trophy winner can bounce between unbridled enthusiasm and emotional outbursts . Williams was known for painting his fingernails during his college days and he’s been unafraid to challenge public media personalities. “My mom does nails,” Williams said. “Let’s just start it off there. She’s done it my whole life. It’s just kind of always been around me. Nobody else does it. I just kinda like to do new things.” On Sunday, Williams was outplayed at QB by Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield , even though the Buccaneers QB threw two picks. Williams posted a 61.5 rating on a night when Chicago committed five total turnovers. But the Bears have Super Bowl dreams this season and the only thing that matters weekly is winning. Williams captures the heart of Chicago and he remained true to himself after the worst game he’s played as the Bears’ QB. “It’s hard to win with five turnovers and yet we found a way to do it,” Bears coach Ben Johnson said. “They know that we didn’t play as well as we’re capable of playing but I believe the best is yet to come in terms of our football in the back half of the season. So we’ll continue to build that as we go forward.” Sign up for talkSPORT Stateside , the YouTube channel dedicated to passionate US Sports fans. Will Gavin, Brian T. Smith, former NFL star Efe Obada and a collection of special guests debate the biggest talking points across the NFL, soccer, NBA and more.