USC Quarterback Caleb Williams Silent on NFL Future

Caleb Williams, the standout USC quarterback who dazzled in the 2022 season and clinched the Heisman Trophy, was widely expected to be the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft in 2023. Yet, intriguingly, he has chosen to remain tight-lipped about his NFL prospects.

This uncertainty stems from recent comments made by Williams' father, who hinted that his son might opt to stay at USC depending on which team claims the coveted top pick in the draft. There has been speculation that he might be hesitant to play for the Arizona Cardinals, should they secure the top pick. When pressed for answers on this matter, Williams tactfully sidestepped the questions.

"Our focus right now is on Stanford this week," responded Caleb Williams. "The game is just three days away, and my primary concern is delivering for my teammates on Saturday."

Clearly, Williams is not eager to engage in discussions about his NFL future and is determined to keep the focus squarely on his current college football commitments.

"So, that's my response to any inquiries about the NFL," Williams continued. "I have ten more games ahead of me here at USC, and then we'll shift our attention to the final three. Next question."

It's understandable why Caleb Williams is reticent to comment on rumors suggesting he might not enter the NFL Draft. Nevertheless, given the statements made by his father, these inquiries are entirely reasonable.

Williams' father revealed that he had a conversation with Lincoln Riley, USC's head coach, who suggested that quarterbacks he's coached in the past may have faced challenges in the NFL due to their draft positions. Kyler Murray, for instance, faced this predicament when drafted by the Arizona Cardinals.

"He's got two opportunities," stated Carl Williams. "If the circumstances aren't favorable, he can return to school."

One prevailing theory is that Williams' decision could be influenced by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. However, ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum expressed doubts about the impact NIL could have on Williams' choice.

"While you could certainly use NIL as leverage, we haven't seen this be a significant factor since Eli Manning," Finebaum remarked. "But I don't believe it's feasible. Given the substantial earnings potential he has and can continue to generate through his brand, particularly in Los Angeles, it's unlikely that he'd postpone the chance to be the number one pick. The financial incentives, including bonus money and residuals, are just too substantial to pass up."

Heather Dinich added her perspective, emphasizing that the decision extends beyond financial considerations.

"I concur with Paul," Dinich noted. "This decision isn't solely about money. We're talking about realizing the dream of playing at the highest level in the NFL and potentially becoming the top overall pick. From my standpoint, that's a no-brainer. However, it's also a profoundly personal choice."