We’re only five games into the Caleb Williams era in Chicago, but things are “so far” for the Bears’ starting quarterback. At least that’s the vibe I get from Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles.

The Bears’ star football player spoke to the media earlier this week as the team prepared to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. And while he touched on a handful of topics, what stood out to me was what the Poles had to say about the quarterback’s growth and progress:

“I think he’s learning to play professional football, and when I say that, it means he has to have a winning mentality in terms of, ‘What does it take to win football games from the quarterback position?’” Polen said via the team website. official website. “And you’ve seen that in terms of efficiency, protecting the football, taking what’s given to him. And then going into this last play, explosives are starting to appear now. So I really like his progress. I like the work ethic and the time he puts in, the grit and the strength, the ability to come back after tough games. He is exactly where he needs to be and he is getting better.”

When it comes to Ryan Poles’ comments about Caleb Williams, you won’t get an argument from me. It hasn’t always been pretty. However, QB1 has shown growth in throwing efficiently and protecting the football. Now that he’s mastered that, I’m ready to see Williams tear it up for more plays. Yes, I know Bears head coach Matt Eberflus comes across as wanting to play close to the vest. And it annoys me as much as it annoys you. But I bet he’d love it if his quarterback took it one step further. Wouldn’t we all do that?

Other notable quotes from Bears General Manager Ryan Poles

More from the Bears GM from around the beat…

As a side note, wouldn’t it be something if the NFL and its television partners could strike a deal that pushes the Bears-Commanders game into a primetime window in Week 8? Come on, N.F.L. You know what to do!

‘That has proven to be the case. And there are guys like Pryor who are looking for opportunities, and they’ve stepped in and done a really good job. With Caleb (Williams), who really makes sure he has depth. He’s been able to set up the pocket and create some movement in the run game, so we’re happy with that.

That is part of drawing up a schedule. That’s my job and my front office’s job to create competition, and I think Matt has done a really good job and Nate has some things he can continue to work on. Again, there’s depth and as we go through this season, things are going to happen and injuries, so we need everyone to stay ready.

For more from Bears GM Ryan Poles, watch the videos below: