Bears Lose Center Drew Dalman, Raising Concerns for QB Caleb Williams

Former Bears QB Chase Daniel weighs in on the impact of Dalman's sudden retirement

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The sudden retirement of Chicago Bears center Drew Dalman is expected to have a significant impact on the team, particularly for second-year quarterback Caleb Williams. Dalman, known as the "Iceman" for his cool leadership, had developed a strong relationship with Williams and was key to the quarterback's development. Former Bears QB Chase Daniel believes Dalman's departure will put more on Williams' plate as he loses the center who was calling protections at the line of scrimmage.

Why it matters

The Bears' offensive line was a key factor in Williams' breakout 2025 season, and Dalman's leadership and chemistry with the young QB was central to that success. His retirement creates a major hole the team must fill, with questions now surrounding the offensive line and how it will impact Williams' continued progression.

The details

Dalman, who earned the nickname "Iceman" for his calm demeanor, was instrumental in Williams' development, with the two building a strong relationship. Former Bears QB Chase Daniel, who has closely followed the team, believes Dalman's retirement will put more responsibility on Williams' shoulders, as the center was the one calling protections at the line of scrimmage. The Bears have already started looking to fill the void, bringing in former Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz for a visit as they work to identify the best fit to continue developing their young quarterback.

  • Drew Dalman suddenly announced his retirement on March 5, 2026.

The players

Drew Dalman

The former Chicago Bears center who suddenly retired, leaving a major hole on the offensive line and raising questions about the impact on quarterback Caleb Williams.

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' second-year quarterback, who had developed a strong relationship with center Drew Dalman and saw significant success in 2025 with Dalman leading the offensive line.

Chase Daniel

A former NFL quarterback and current analyst who has closely followed the Bears and Caleb Williams, and who believes Dalman's retirement will put more responsibility on the young QB's shoulders.

Tyler Biadasz

The former Washington Commanders center who the Bears have brought in for a visit as they look to fill the void left by Dalman's retirement.

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What they’re saying

“Well, it's a huge deal. For one, he's the center, he's the guy who snaps you the football. Ultimately at the line of scrimmage, when you watch the film, Drew Dalman was calling all the protections. Whether it's the run game protection or the pass game protection and it was really key in Caleb Williams' development. I was in awe, I was completely flabbergasted and surprised. When you're a quarterback, you have a certain comfort level with certain centers, how they see things, what we should go to, it just puts a little bit more on Caleb Williams' plate. He's the leader of the big uglies up front, this is a massive, massive loss.”

— Chase Daniel, Former NFL quarterback and current analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Bears have already brought in former Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz for a visit as they look to identify the best replacement for Drew Dalman and ensure a smooth transition for quarterback Caleb Williams.

The takeaway

The loss of veteran center Drew Dalman, who had developed a strong rapport with quarterback Caleb Williams, represents a significant challenge for the Bears as they look to build on Williams' breakout 2025 season. The team must now find the right replacement to maintain the offensive line's cohesion and continue Williams' development, underscoring the importance of chemistry between a QB and his center.