Caleb Williams Paces Bears Sideline During Anthem While Recovering From Hamstring Injury

During the Monday Night Football game between the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles, 24‑year‑old Caleb Williams was seen walking along the Bears sideline while the national anthem was performed by Mariachi Herencia de México. Williams is not slated to play in the game—or possibly the next few—because an MRI after last week’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings revealed a hamstring strain without a tear. The incident drew criticism on social media, with some viewers calling the behavior disrespectful. The event highlights the tension between player recovery protocols and the ceremonial expectations that accompany the anthem in the NFL.