The Chicago Bears narrowly avoided what could have been a disastrous end to their season when medical tests confirmed that quarterback Caleb Williams did not suffer a major tear in his hamstring. Head coach Ben Johnson announced on Monday that while Williams will likely miss some time, there is a possibility for a surprisingly quick return.

This unexpected shift from immediate panic to relief sent shockwaves through the sports media world, leading to comparisons with legendary sports moments. Sports commentator Pat McAfee took to X to draw an analogy between this situation and an iconic sequence from the NBA, stating, “Caleb Williams avoided a major injury to his hamstring and the Bears aren’t ruling him out for Monday against the Eagles. We all thought he was done for the season. This was Paul Pierce all over again #PMSLive.”

Caleb Williams avoided major injury to his hamstring and the Bears aren't ruling him out for Monday against the Eagles..

We all thought he was done for the season..

This was Paul Pierce all over again #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/ncj4rcsTOu

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 21, 2026

The relief was palpable, especially in contrast to the unwarranted criticism Williams faced online immediately after his injury, and former players quickly came to his defense. Kyle Long, a former Bears offensive lineman, tweeted, “Nobody understands how much a guy like Caleb loves the game, his team, and the city. When you realize you’re injured, a certain intensity of emotion hits you.” The Hoge & Jahns crew on X also strongly defended the quarterback, arguing that anyone criticizing his reaction to pain or his need for assistance likely has a personal bias against him.

As Chicago prepares for a crucial Monday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, the team awaits news on whether Williams can achieve an unthinkable return or if backup Tyson Bagent will be called upon to take the lead.