Caleb Williams transforms under Ben Johnson's guidance

In the United States, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is entering the 2026 NFL season with heightened expectations following a notable improvement in his performance. This transformation comes in his second year under head coach Ben Johnson, who was hired to enhance the team's offensive capabilities after the previous season under defensive-minded coach Matt Eberflus. Johnson, known for his innovative offensive strategies, was brought in from the Detroit Lions, where he had previously worked with quarterback Jared Goff. The collaboration between Johnson and Williams proved to be promising in their first year, showcasing a blend of designed plays and Williams' improvisational skills.

As the 2026 training camp progresses, Bears insider Carmen Vitali has observed a stark contrast in Williams' performance compared to the previous year. Vitali noted that the quarterback's decisiveness and communication in the huddle have significantly improved, indicating a deeper understanding of the game and his role within the team. This newfound confidence is evident in Williams' ability to read defenses and make quick decisions, which were areas of struggle during his rookie season. The Bears' coaching staff aims to push Williams further this season, focusing on maximizing his potential by increasing his passing attempts.

In the 2025 season, Williams had a productive year, throwing for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns, although his completion percentage of 58.1% was lower than that of his predecessor, Jared Goff. The coaching staff believes that with more experience and a better grasp of the offensive system, Williams can elevate his performance and lead the Bears to greater success. The synergy between Johnson's offensive philosophy and Williams' evolving skill set is expected to yield positive results as they continue to develop their partnership.

As the Bears prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on building on the progress made in the previous year. With a talented quarterback and a skilled offensive coach, the team is optimistic about their chances in the competitive NFL landscape. The combination of Williams' growth and Johnson's strategic approach could potentially transform the Bears' offense into a formidable force in the league, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.