Bears HC Ben Johnson praises Caleb Williams’ growth, potential

The Chicago Bears are set to kick off the 2025 regular season Monday night against the Minnesota Vikings, giving fans their first real-game look at franchise quarterback Caleb Williams in the new-look offense brought in by new head coach Ben Johnson.

Johnson’s innovative scheme and creative play-calling helped turn the Detroit Lions into one of the most dynamic and explosive offenses in the NFL over the past couple of years, and the Bears are hoping for similar results, especially with such a talented passer taking the snaps in Williams.

Speaking to the media Wednesday, Johnson heaped praise on Williams for his work ethic and growth within the offense, as well as his potential to become extremely successful within the scheme this season:

Talent and potential have never been in question for Williams, the slam-dunk No. 1 overall pick in last year’s NFL Draft. But the scheme and play-calling did him no favors during an up-and-down rookie season in Chicago, leading to mixed results that didn’t reflect his sky-high level of talent.

Now armed with a better supporting cast on the headsets, as well as a loaded group of playmakers at the skill positions (Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore, Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland and more) and an improved offensive line bolstered by multiple veteran additions this offseason, Williams should make a massive leap with Johnson calling the shots for the offense this time around.

Johnson and Williams will get a tough test right out of the gate, though, as the Vikings boast one of the best defensive coordinators in the league in Brian Flores. If the offense can deliver a solid showing against such a strong Week 1 opponent, it’ll bode well for their chances of sustained success throughout the 2025 season and beyond.