Caleb Williams Jumps to No. 10 in ESPN’s 2026 QB Rankings After Dominant 2025 Clutch Play

**Caleb Williams has climbed to No. 10 in ESPN’s 2026 quarterback rankings**, narrowly beating Jordan Love in a poll of NFL scouts, coaches, and executives. The Bears’ signal-caller’s clutch performances-including six fourth-quarter comebacks in 2025-secured him the spot over Love, Sam Darnold, and Jayden Daniels.**

ESPN’s tiebreakers favored Williams for his **"closer" reputation**. One personnel evaluator called him the league’s best down-the-stretch quarterback. His six fourth-quarter wins in 2025 tied Peyton Manning’s record for second-year QBs, not counting his Wild Card victory over the Green Bay Packers.

Analysts highlight his **arm talent and athleticism**, which set him apart from Love and Darnold. A GM described him as **"the most dynamic"** of the four quarterbacks in contention. Williams’ ability to make impossible throws-like his 4th-and-8 strike to Rome Odunze in the Wild Card game-left Packers receiver Christian Watson stunned.

Despite his highlight-reel plays, Williams’ **2025 completion percentage was unacceptably low**. His final pass of the season-a costly interception in overtime against the Rams-showed room to grow. One defensive coach called his decision-making **"wildly erratic"**, though he acknowledged Williams’ **"it factor"** in crunch time.

To move up the rankings in 2026, Williams must **cut down on turnovers and improve consistency**. The Bears’ offensive line-led by Joe Thuney, ranked No. 5 at interior OL-will need to protect him better. If he refines his "layup" throws alongside his home-run plays, the sky’s the limit.

**The poll results reflect a shift in perception**: Williams went from "another Bears QB bust" to a **top-tier prospect in just two seasons**.