The journey to the NFL hasn’t been smooth sailing for Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, and his rookie season was a true test of resilience. Though the young signal-caller showcased undeniable talent and put up solid individual numbers, the environment around him was less than ideal. From enduring a 10-game losing streak to being sacked a league-high 68 times, Williams’ introduction to professional football was shaped by chaos and instability.
It’s no secret that Williams had some hesitations about joining the Bears leading up to the draft. Many speculated whether he would even declare for the NFL or if he might try to avoid ending up in a franchise that, at the time, was known more for dysfunction than success. And given how his rookie campaign played out—with a mid-season firing of the head coach and a front office seemingly in flux—those concerns initially seemed well-founded.
However, the 2025 offseason has signaled a major turning point for the Bears organization. Determined to create a stable and winning culture, the team has taken substantial steps to build a foundation that supports their star quarterback. The most notable move? The hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach. Johnson, known for his offensive mind and ability to develop young quarterbacks, has quickly made an impression on Williams and the locker room.
Speaking to reporters during offseason workouts, Caleb Williams expressed a renewed sense of optimism, saying he now feels genuinely supported by the direction of the franchise.
“It’s different this time,” Williams shared. “There’s a plan in place. I feel like I’m in good hands with Coach Johnson and this staff. They understand how to build something sustainable and how to put their players in the best position to succeed. That means everything for a quarterback.”
This confidence isn’t just lip service. The Bears have also made key additions to their offensive line, bolstered the receiving corps, and revamped their offensive playbook to better suit Williams’ strengths. With Johnson’s vision and experience guiding the team, the narrative around the Bears seems to be shifting—from a perennial rebuilding franchise to one on the rise.
As Williams prepares for his second NFL season, the belief in his voice is unmistakable. After a turbulent rookie year, he’s embracing the future with confidence, knowing that—for the first time since being drafted—he’s truly in good hands.