The Chicago Bears are off to a 2-0 start in the NFL preseason, with quarterback Caleb Williams playing a key role in meeting fans’ expectations. As the Bears prepare for the regular season, Williams is quickly becoming a central figure in their offense, building on his impressive rookie campaign.
Entering his second year as the Bears’ starting quarterback, Williams carries high hopes from both the team and supporters, fueled by his strong performance during his first season with the club.
Williams’ rookie season laid the groundwork for leading Chicago’s offense
Although the Bears finished 5-12 last year, Williams posted solid personal statistics, throwing for 3,541 yards and 20 touchdowns. His rookie numbers have rekindled optimism among fans, reminiscent of Buffalo Bills quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s tenure leading Chicago’s offense.
While preseason games primarily serve to give players game reps and do not reflect the full intensity of the regular season, Williams made an impact in Chicago’s 38-0 preseason victory over the Bills at Soldier Field. In that game, Williams completed 6 of 10 passes for 107 yards and one touchdown, a performance that gave Bears fans much to be hopeful about.
Early preseason highlights suggest strong chemistry with key receivers
Williams’ touchdown pass came early in the game on his first drive, connecting with wide receiver Olamide Zaccheus for a 36-yard gain. This connection between Williams and Zaccheus is expected to develop into a consistent threat that Bears fans will see throughout the season.
Williams is increasingly recognized as a franchise quarterback for Chicago, drawing from his distinguished college career at USC where he earned unanimous All-American honors and won the Heisman Trophy in 2022. His transition to the NFL has shown signs that he can be a long-term leader for the Bears.
Mitch Trubisky, who returned to Soldier Field this preseason as part of the Bills’ offense, shared advice with Williams reflecting on his own experience leading the Bears.
It is a fishbowl, but at the same I would say enjoy it, take it all in.
—Mitch Trubisky, former Chicago Bears quarterback
I only had it for four years, I wish I had it longer to be honest. So take it, enjoy the process. All eyes are (on) you in this city. It really is a privilege and there is a lot of pressure that comes with that. I miss that. It’s a lot of fun to be the franchise guy in that city, especially in a city like this. I would say have fun with it and enjoy the process.
—Mitch Trubisky, former Chicago Bears quarterback
Coach Ben Johnson acknowledges Williams’ potential but stresses consistent growth
Head coach Ben Johnson, who recently took the helm of the Bears’ offense, brings experience from coaching quarterback Jared Goff during three consecutive playoff runs with the Detroit Lions. Johnson’s presence gives the Bears confidence that their offense will develop under his leadership.
Although Chicago rotated quarterbacks in the preseason, Johnson highlighted Williams’ promising but uneven performance throughout training camp.
He’s really been locked in. Anytime you’re a young player, there’s usually a couple steps forward and a couple steps back, and that’s really been the story of his training camp.
—Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears head coach
He’s had some really good practice’s and he’s had a couple where it’s like ‘that’s not good enough bud.’ The challenge is going to keep pushing in that direction.
—Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears head coach
Looking ahead: expectations for Williams and the Bears’ offense in the regular season
As the Bears move closer to the start of the regular season, Williams’ ongoing development will be critical to the team’s success. With the guidance of Coach Johnson and a strong supporting cast including receivers like Zaccheus, the Bears hope Williams can elevate their offense and improve on last year’s record.
Williams’ blend of college accolades and rookie–season promise positions him as a hopeful franchise quarterback, but both coach and fans remain cautious, recognizing the challenges that come with growth in a highly scrutinized football market like Chicago.