What happened: Caleb Williams gifted Pope Leo XIV an autographed Chicago Bears jersey. The signed No. 18 jersey was delivered to the Vatican as a Fourth of July gift.
Why it matters: The gesture connects the Bears’ quarterback with the first American pope and his Chicago roots. It also extends Williams’ profile beyond football ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
By the numbers: The gift was an autographed No. 18 Bears jersey.
What to watch: The Bears will soon shift toward training camp and preparations for the 2026 season.