Bears QB Caleb Williams sends message to rookie Dillon Thieneman

Dillon Thieneman received the defensive game ball from Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson on Sunday. The rookie safety made a strong impression in his debut NFL game, and Caleb Williams sent a message to him.

Thieneman recorded eight combined tackles, including six solo efforts. He stepped up big time in Coby Bryant and Xavier Woods’ absence and proved that he belongs in the league. The 22-year-old also showed the Bears front office that they made the right decision to select him at No. 25 overall this year. He enjoyed a successful 2025 season with the Oregon Ducks, earning first-team All-American honors.

Williams, on the other hand, completed 21-of-29 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns. He also registered 10 rushing attempts for 65 yards and two scores in the 59-37 win.

Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears — Caleb Williams (18) acknowledges the crowd and walks off the field after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium.

Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams reacts to Dillon Thieneman’s Instagram post

Thieneman posted five photos from Sunday’s season opener. It showed him on the field, making his tunnel walk and inside the locker room. The Oregon product added a one-word caption.

“Blessed,” Thieneman wrote.

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A post shared by Dillon Thieneman (@dillonthieneman)

Williams reposted in on his story along with his message.

“Yeaaaaaaaa rook,” Williams added.

The Bears brought Thieneman in to add more depth at safety after losing three players in free agency. However, with Bryant set to sidelined for four to six months, the rookie will take on a bigger role immediately. The good news for the the team is he lived up to expectations and played a key role in the first win of the campaign.

Thieneman and Chicago will return to action on Sunday. They will host the Minnesota Vikings for their season opener at Soldier Field. Two more home games follow, with the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets set to visit in Weeks 3 and 4. The Bears will then take on their rivals, the Green Bay Packers, the following week at Lambeau Field.