3 reasons why first episode of ‘Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears’ disappointed

I couldn’t wait for the premiere of “Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears,” and on Tuesday night, we finally got Episode 1.

And I was disappointed.

Now, before you demolish my mentions on X, let me explain. Here are three reasons why “Hard Knocks” is off to a slow start.

What’s with the Caleb Williams narrative?

First, let me say this: I think “Hard Knocks” showcased everything that’s great about Caleb Williams’ personality. The first episode already dispelled any preexisting myths about his lacking leadership skills or hard-to-like personality. He’s one of the guys, and it already shows.

But the on-field stuff? I don’t know how anyone could watch that first episode and think it matches what’s unfolding at practice every day. From coaches to teammates and beat writers, the consensus is that Williams is ahead of schedule in his development as an NFL quarterback. The first episode of “Hard Knocks” told a different story and suggested that Williams is struggling. At least, that’s how I interpreted it (if you disagree, sign up for a free user account and share your thoughts in our comments).

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Not enough DJ Moore, Keenan Allen

Keenan Allen is one of the more interesting personalities on the Bears roster this year, but he barely appeared in the premiere. I get it, “Hard Knocks” can’t make everyone a star in every episode, but Allen warrants more national attention. He felt like an afterthought.

Moore had his moment with the contract extension, and that was really cool to see. But if I’m being super picky, I would’ve loved to see more. Maybe some coverage from the Moore household? How was his life off the field impacted by the massive contract? That’s the stuff that makes “Hard Knocks” great. We didn’t get enough of it in Episode 1.

Matt Eberflus’ story arc is off to an odd start

I had a weird reaction to how Matt Eberflus was portrayed in the first episode. Maybe it’s kind of that thing where you can make fun of your brother, but it isn’t cool if someone else does it.

Eberflus’ geek-to-sheik glow-up was, basically, the first impression we were given of the Bears’ third-year head coach. I liked the family dynamic and how his wife influenced the “Ryan Reynolds” style change. But there’s no doubt Eberflus came across as a little goofy, maybe even a little uncomfortable in his “new skin.”

It made me wonder if Eberflus was just a guy who liked what he liked. The dad shoes, the slicked-back hair, the old-school clean-shaven face. I almost felt bad for him during the episode. Maybe that’s a good thing, HBO made me emote. But I fear Eberflus could end this season of “Hard Knocks” looking like more of a punchline than a serious ball coach.

Just like with an NFL season, it’s early

Again, don’t kill me for not being blown away by the premiere. I’m also fully aware that, like any new show, we need time for characters to rise to the top and for interesting and intriguing storylines to develop. There was no chance we’d have that after one episode, and I’m confident HBO will level up as the weeks go on.

Still, I was underwhelmed when the final credits rolled. It felt like a meal that was underseasoned, not cooked to the right temperature. Something was off. Hopefully, that won’t be the prevailing feeling when “Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears” concludes.