USC quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams could potentially return to the Trojans for the 2024 season if he is not satisfied with the outcome of the 2023 NFL Draft. Williams’ father, Carl, expressed concerns about the draft process and hinted at the possibility of his son staying in college for another year if he is likely to end up in an unfavorable situation in the draft.
In an interview with GQ Sports, Carl Williams said, “The funky thing about the NFL draft process is, he’d almost be better off not being drafted than being drafted first. The system is completely backwards. The way the system is constructed, you go to the worst possible situation. The worst possible team, the worst organization in the league—because of their desire for parity—gets the first pick. So it’s the gift and the curse.”
While playing for USC, Williams is under the guidance of coach Lincoln Riley, who is known for developing quarterbacks. However, some of Riley’s past quarterbacks, such as Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, have struggled in the NFL despite their success in college. Williams has also had numerous NIL opportunities since joining USC, which has benefited him financially.
Carl Williams mentioned the importance of the organization a player is drafted by, citing examples like Archie Manning, whose career suffered due to being drafted by a poor team, and the struggles of Kyler Murray and Baker Mayfield based on their draft positions. He emphasized that his son has the opportunity to return to college if the right situation in the NFL does not present itself.
It is still unclear which team will have the first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, but quarterbacks have been selected first overall in seven of the past nine drafts. Bryce Young, the former Alabama quarterback and 2021 Heisman winner, was the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers.
Mahomes 2.0?
Caleb Williams has showcased his talent and potential to be a star in the NFL if given the right circumstances. As a true freshman at Oklahoma in 2021, he took over as the starting quarterback mid-season and had impressive statistics. After transferring to USC in 2022, he continued to shine with his ability to improvise and has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and two-time Super Bowl champion.
Reggie Bush, former USC star running back, highlighted the explosive athleticism and speed that Williams brings to the table, which differentiates him from Mahomes. Despite Mahomes’ creativity and ability to buy time, Williams has the potential to make big plays with his running ability.
USC has started the season with a 2-0 record, with wins over San Jose State and Nevada. In 2022, they had a successful 11-3 season and reached the Pac-12 Championship Game, but lost to Utah. If Williams chooses to stay at USC in 2024, it would mark the Trojans’ first season as a member of the Big Ten conference.
