Caleb Williams delivered a brief six-word message to head coach Ben Johnson that captures the mindset of the Chicago Bears’ young QB–coach partnership.
The Bears are only 13 games into their first season with Johnson running the team and Williams in his second year under center. Even with room for growth, the duo has Chicago sitting at 9-4 despite a narrow Week 14 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field — a defeat that nudged the Bears just behind the division lead in the NFC North.
There have been some uneven moments between Johnson, Williams, and key playmakers such as star receiver DJ Moore. Still, the coach and quarterback are gradually shaping a long-term formula they hope will push Chicago back into championship relevance for the first time since the 1985 season.
Johnson’s résumé includes guiding the Detroit Lions’ offense into perennial top-five form over three seasons. Williams, a former Heisman winner, thrives when improvising — something Johnson wants to rein in slightly, though not eliminate. As the two work toward a balanced approach, Williams keeps reminding his coach of one thing.
According to CHGO Bears, Williams frequently tells Johnson, “You call it, I’ll make it work.”
Merging Styles Amid a Promising First Season
Analysts have watched Johnson and Williams closely this year, examining their communication and chemistry as the offense evolves. Johnson acknowledged on Monday that their dynamic includes both frustration and awe.
He noted that some plays each week show wide-open receivers who should get the ball sooner. But then Williams produces a highlight-reel moment that almost defies logic — the type of play that reminds everyone why he was so highly drafted.
Johnson explained that the long-term goal is to blend Williams’ off-script brilliance with the timing and structure of the scheme. If they achieve that, he believes the Bears could field a dangerous offense with a top-tier quarterback for years. However, he admitted they are “not quite there yet.”
Williams’ Second Season Shows Growth and Growing Pains
While Williams hasn’t been as consistent as Johnson hopes, the young passer has shown major improvement in key areas. His completion rate has dipped to 57.8% — nearly five points below his rookie mark — but several factors play into that, including an unusually high number of drops by Chicago’s receiving corps.
Through 13 games, Williams has thrown for 2,908 yards, 19 touchdowns, and six interceptions, nearly matching last year’s touchdown and interception totals in fewer games.
One massive difference from 2024: he has cut down his sacks from a staggering 68 to just 20, a product of both better decision-making and a significantly improved offensive line.
Analysts like Mina Kimes and Ben Solak have argued that the Bears’ offense is “close” to becoming one of the NFL’s most dangerous units — a goal that should come into reach as Williams grows more comfortable operating within Johnson’s system.
At 9-4 and only a half-game out of first place with four weeks left, Chicago remains in strong position to win the division or secure a playoff berth. And with Johnson and Williams continuing to build rapport, the trajectory for the Bears appears pointed upward.
