From New England Patriots On SI · · 2m
Patriots' Drake Maye and Bears' Caleb Williams Collide
Two NFL stars, Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, face off after rocky starts to their careers.
In brief
Two NFL stars, Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, face off after rocky starts to their careers. Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, both 2024 NFL Draft picks, now lead playoff hopeful teams after overcoming early struggles. Originally reported by New England Patriots On SI.
2024 NFL Draft Picks
Drake Maye and Caleb Williams were both selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, with Williams going first overall to the Chicago Bears and Maye joining the New England Patriots.
Early NFL Challenges
Both quarterbacks faced significant growing pains during their rookie seasons, with Williams starting immediately and Maye sitting on the bench for the first five weeks.
First Head-to-Head Matchup
Maye defeated Williams in their first meeting on November 10, 2024, with a 19-3 victory at Soldier Field.
2025 Turning Point
With new coaching staffs in place, Maye led the Patriots to Super Bowl LX and earned second-team All-Pro honors, while Williams set a Bears franchise record with 3,942 passing yards.
Current Form
As of late 2026, both teams have identical 4-2 records, with Maye throwing 10 touchdowns against one interception and Williams returning from a hamstring injury.
Mutual Respect
Maye praised Williams' ability to escape pressure and extend plays, while head coach Mike Vrabel highlighted Williams' improving decision-making and reduced sack numbers.
Thursday's Matchup
The two quarterbacks will face off on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Soldier Field in a game that tests their ability to keep their teams in playoff contention.
2026 Season Progress
Maye has found his rhythm after early turnovers, helping the Patriots win three straight games, while Williams made an impressive return against the Atlanta Falcons on October 18.
Playoff Aspirations
Both teams are now in playoff contention with strong records, having overcome early struggles to become legitimate contenders.
Future Challenges
The quarterbacks must now maintain their momentum and keep their teams in playoff contention after their initial NFL successes.
What Happens Next
The matchup on Thursday, October 22, 2026, will determine which quarterback can sustain their success and keep their team in playoff contention.
The short version
Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, both 2024 NFL Draft picks, now lead playoff hopeful teams after overcoming early struggles.
