Caleb Williams is encountering significant challenges adapting to the Chicago Bears’ offense under coach Ben Johnson, leading to growing frustration among fans about his development and the team’s future. Despite Williams’ efforts in his rookie NFL season and Johnson’s confidence in his progress, skepticism remains over whether the quarterback can overcome the hurdles linked to the Bears’ offensive struggles in 2024.
Adjusting to a Complex Offensive System Proves Difficult for Williams
Williams, last year’s No. 1 overall pick, completed his first season with a 5-12 record and a 62.5 completion percentage, as he navigates a demanding new offensive scheme introduced by Ben Johnson. The transition has not been smooth, with Williams describing the system as layered and still largely unexplored.
“There’s so many more layers that I haven’t been over yet and we haven’t been over yet just because it’s our first year,” Williams said on Friday, via Sirius XM Radio. “There’s so much more within this offense to be able to unlock it.” —Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback
Williams explained that the team is actively self-correcting as they progress through their first season with the new playbook, expressing hope for gradual improvement either by season’s end or next year.
“We’re self-correcting, doing all these things. At some point before the season, I think we’ll keep progressing, obviously. Hopefully there’s a next step, and you know if not, it’s going to be the next year.” —Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback
Fan Reactions Highlight Growing Doubt About Williams’ Future Performance
Despite Williams’ optimism, many fans remain unconvinced he will surmount the obstacles the Bears face. Criticism from supporters reflects deep concern over Williams’ ability to deliver immediate results.
“Biggest fraud in the league,” a fan tweeted.
“That won’t work for Caleb Williams. He likes to hold onto the ball and get sacked,” former New York Jets scout Daniel Kelly wrote.
“He keeps talking about the years ahead. This is an unforgiving league. He has to produce now,” one fan commented.
Williams entered the NFL with high expectations after winning the 2022 Heisman Trophy at USC, but his rookie season was marred by a franchise-record 68 sacks, ranking as the third-most ever in a single NFL campaign. Many observers had anticipated a breakout sophomore season, yet some fans now question his potential trajectory.
“Caleb Williams is DONE. MARK the tape. He is a flame out,” a fan said.
“Gonna be a first-read wonder. On his merry way to being a bust and I’m here for it,” one fan wrote.
“Can’t stand this guy,” another fan wrote.
Expert Views Critique Williams’ Mechanics and Decision-Making
Beyond fan discontent, analysts such as Pro Football Focus’ Nick Akridge have also pointed out technical issues in Williams’ play. Akridge noted that Williams often drops back directly to the line of scrimmage, which complicates his ability to find optimal throwing positions.
“Too many times he would drop back square to the line of scrimmage, which can make it tougher to get to an ideal throwing position,” Ackridge wrote in February 2024.
Statistically, the Bears’ offense struggled notably, finishing 2024 with an average of just 181.5 passing yards per game—the second-lowest in the NFL—and ranking last in total yards per game at 284.6. Many critics attribute these offensive shortcomings to Williams’ hesitation in thoroughly processing his progressions before releasing the ball.
Coach Johnson Sees Growth in Williams’ Confidence Despite Struggles
While criticism mounts, Ben Johnson remains hopeful about Williams’ development, highlighting a specific area of improvement in the quarterback’s approach during games. Johnson observed increased confidence from the time a play is called until Williams breaks the huddle, suggesting a positive mindset shift.
“I notice from when he gets the play called to when he breaks the huddle, there’s a lot more confidence, to his whole process,” Johnson said on Saturday, via NFL Network.
Johnson, a first-year head coach with a solid track record as Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, is known for quarterbacks’ improvement under his guidance. In 2024, Detroit’s offense led the league in points per game and set a record for the most 40-point games without turnovers. Johnson aims to apply that expertise to elevate the Bears’ offensive production and help Williams fulfill his potential.
Looking Ahead: The Bears’ Offensive Future Hinges on Williams’ Development
The coming seasons will be crucial for Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears as they strive to overcome an underwhelming rookie year and an offense that ranks near the bottom of the league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Williams can unlock the layers of Coach Johnson’s system and reduce critical mistakes such as holding onto the ball too long or making poor reads. The Bears’ ability to build around him and Johnson’s offensive plans will ultimately determine whether the team can improve its record and compete at a higher level.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Caleb Williams number 13?
A. He was among six quarterbacks chosen in the first round, matching the 1983 draft record in NFL history. Since Keenan Allen already had his college number 13, Williams opted for his high school number 18 in the NFL. This decision was announced less than 30 minutes after he was drafted.