Caleb Williams is preparing for his first season playing under the guidance of new head coach Ben Johnson with the Chicago Bears. As the team‘s offseason progresses, Johnson has observed Williams becoming significantly more comfortable within the new offensive system.
Ben Johnson highlighted Williams’ adjustment, noting improvements during practice sessions.
“I probably just see growth. He is so much more comfortable right now. Even yesterday — the walk-through — in terms of moving around. We go from gun to under (center) to the tight ends are moving, the receivers are moving. We’re adding more every day,”
Johnson shared, emphasizing Williams’ increasing ease with the evolving playbook. —Ben Johnson, Head Coach
In addition to on-field changes, Johnson praised Williams’ dedication outside of formal practice, pointing to a disciplined preparation process.
“I told him this on the player day off: his process is really clean right now. I’m talking about how he’s preparing. I’m really pleased with it. He’s doing the work behind the scenes that no one else is seeing and we’re starting to see the dividends being paid from it.”
—Ben Johnson, Head Coach
Players Discuss Adjusting to New Playbook and High Standards
Williams acknowledged that every season requires a fresh start, especially with new coaching staff and schemes in place. He described the transition as challenging but promising for long-term growth with Johnson.
“Every year is going to be a start fresh year in that sense, but with Ben, him and I are going to be here for a while, which is the plan. There’s going to be carry over from now on. Yeah, it’s different. It’s a whole new playbook, different terminology, different reads, different footwork and different things like that. It’s a lot and it’s still always going to be a lot. That’s a part of playing this position, so being able to go out there and handle it all is what we get paid to do, it’s our job.”
—Caleb Williams, Quarterback
Wide receiver Luther Burden III also commented on the team‘s demanding standards during practice. Reflecting on being temporarily pulled out for a misalignment, Burden said,
“I feel like I’ve got to know my stuff. [Johnson] holds everybody to a high standard here. It’s great for us, great for the team and that’s the standard here.”
—Luther Burden III, Wide Receiver
Competition Growing at Critical Positions on the Bears Roster
Several position battles are heating up as the Bears refine their roster heading into the season. Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen addressed the race for the team‘s No. 2 cornerback position, describing it as wide open:
“I think it’s completely up for grabs.”
—Dennis Allen, Defensive Coordinator
Regarding Jaylon Johnson’s recovery timeline, head coach Ben Johnson suggested there is optimism for an early return.
“I think there’s a scenario where he’ll be ready for Week 1.”
—Ben Johnson, Head Coach
The starting left tackle competition includes Braxton Jones, Ozzy Trapilo, and 2024 third-round pick Kiran Amegadjie. Johnson emphasized the qualities he values in a left tackle, especially consistency and the ability to win one-on-one pass protection matchups.
“To me it’s consistency. It’s, who’s making the least number of mental errors. I think I said in the springtime, tackles, to me, have to be able to pass protect one-on-one on a regular basis and win those one-on-one matchups. Guys that are out there that we’re not having to be conscious of with the play call to give them help all the time, that would be ideal. Certainly not the case everywhere I’ve been. Over the years, you’ve had to help them out with the play calls. But those guys that can block a defensive end one-on-one, they’ll be really at a premium.”
—Ben Johnson, Head Coach
Receiver Luther Burden’s speed and playmaking ability impressed coaches during recent film reviews. Johnson remarked that Burden’s play speed “jumped off the tape” after Wednesday’s practice. —Ben Johnson, Head Coach
Quarterback Rotation and Broader NFL Updates
In related team news during the preseason, Detroit Lions quarterback Kyle Allen started the first half in their Hall of Fame game against the Chargers. The plan for the following matchup against the Falcons is to have Hendon Hooker start and play the first half. —Eric Woodyard, Reporter
Meanwhile, in Green Bay, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur commented on tight end Tucker Kraft’s development and role moving forward. Kraft, who had a breakout season, is expected to become even more involved in the offense.
“Absolutely, I think he’s just scratching the surface of what he’s going to become. Certainly, we have to do a good job of giving him opportunities. He’s been able to show some of the things, and he’s really grown as a complete football player, but specifically in the passing game.”
—Matt LaFleur, Head Coach
Offseason Progress and What It Means for the Bears’ Future
Caleb Williams’ growing comfort within the Bears’ offense under Ben Johnson is an encouraging sign as the team looks to improve after coaching changes and roster turnover. The quarterback’s disciplined preparation and adaptability suggest he can manage the demands of a new playbook and leadership style. Meanwhile, an active competition across multiple positions reflects a team seeking consistency and minimizing errors as core objectives.
Johnson’s approach, focusing on refining fundamentals such as one-on-one pass protection and mental sharpness, sets the stage for a disciplined, resilient Bears squad. If players like Williams continue their development trajectory and the team resolves position battles effectively, Chicago could be poised for a more competitive season.