What Caleb Williams 2025 Season Could Look Like Under Ben Johnson
Caleb Williams went through a rollercoaster of a rookie season in 2024. Throwing for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, Williams proved he has the talent to be a starting quarterback in the NFL. He was also able to break Chicago Bears rookie records for completions, yards, and touchdowns, even becoming the first Bears quarterback since Jay Cutler in 2009 to start every game during the season. Through all the statistical milestones, the Bears still ended up in last place in the NFC North with a 5-12 record. Suffering a 10-game losing streak after starting their season 4-2, many fans in Chicago blamed their now-former head coach, Matt Eberflus. With a controversial non-usage of his final timeout against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving, that decision was the final straw that ended his head coaching duties after many questionable in-game decisions throughout his time in Chicago.
Unfortunately for Williams, he endured three offensive coordinators and two head coaches in his first season. This has become a trend in the Windy City, with many quarterbacks not given the chance to grow or be set up for success. For many Bears fans, they saw Williams survive not only being sacked 68 times against a defeated offensive line but also find success in a city where “quarterbacks go to die.” The answer for what’s next became very obvious for fans and the organization alike, with Ben Johnson being the top head coaching candidate to take the reigns of the Bears and Williams’ quarterback development.
Ben Johnson has quickly made his impact felt throughout the organization. General manager Ryan Poles was not known to spend big money on talent throughout his time with the Bears. However, a big part of Johnson’s success in Detroit was the men up front protecting the quarterback and providing running lanes for a strong rushing attack. The Bears would trade for tackles Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, followed by signing center Drew Dalman for a $42 million contract with $28 million guaranteed. While not every sack Williams took during the season could be blamed on the offensive line, a notable amount came down to weak protection. With returning veterans D.J. Moore and Cole Kmet, alongside rookie Rome Odunze entering his sophomore season with his quarterback, Williams now has a set of weapons alongside a completely revamped offensive line. There are also questions still surrounding the running back position, with it being another possible upgrade for the offensive arsenal.
Caleb Williams is being set up for a big leap in year two, with Johnson being his biggest believer in finding guys who can help him develop into a franchise quarterback. The city of Chicago has waited a long time for a talent like Williams, but also for a coach who knows how to get their team back to the Super Bowl. While the offseason has only just begun, there’s no denying that the Bears aren’t staying busy finding more help. All eyes will turn to the NFL Draft in Green Bay, on April 24th.
