Caleb Williams Builds on Rookie Season with Bears

The Bears QB improved dramatically in most ways as a passer in 2025, although there were some minor steps back in Year 1 operating Ben Johnson's offense.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Caleb Williams, the Bears' young quarterback, made significant strides in his second NFL season, despite a slight dip in his completion percentage. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Williams improved in key areas such as passing EPA, passer rating, and situational mastery, showcasing his growth and potential. However, there were also some areas of regression, including a decrease in his running impact and passing under pressure. The Bears are encouraged by Williams' development and believe he can continue to improve as he becomes more comfortable in Johnson's offense.

Why it matters

Caleb Williams' progression is crucial for the Bears' long-term success. As the team's franchise quarterback, his development will determine the direction of the organization. The Bears are committed to building around Williams and are encouraged by the steps he has taken, despite some minor setbacks. This story highlights the team's belief in Williams and the progress he has made, which will be crucial as the Bears look to build on their 12-7 season and make a deeper playoff run.

The details

In his second season, Williams saw improvements in several key statistical areas, including passing EPA, passer rating, and situational mastery. However, his completion percentage dropped from 62.5% to 58.1%, and he also saw a decline in his running impact and passing under pressure. Williams' time to throw also increased as he adjusted to Johnson's offense, which emphasizes more play-action and boot passes. Despite these minor setbacks, the Bears remain confident in Williams' ability to continue improving and leading the team to success.

  • In 2024, Williams had a passer rating of 87.8.
  • In 2025, Williams' passer rating improved to 90.1.
  • In 2024, Williams had one game-winning drive and two fourth-quarter comebacks.
  • In 2025, Williams had six game-winning drives and fourth-quarter comebacks during the regular season.
  • Williams' running yards decreased from 488 in 2024 to 388 in 2025.

The players

Caleb Williams

The Bears' young quarterback who made significant strides in his second NFL season, improving in key areas such as passing EPA, passer rating, and situational mastery.

Ben Johnson

The Bears' offensive coordinator who has worked closely with Caleb Williams to help him develop and adapt to the team's new offense.

Ryan Poles

The Bears' general manager who has expressed confidence in Caleb Williams and believes he has the potential to become a top quarterback in the league.

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What they’re saying

“The things that we highlighted for Caleb to start the season, I did think they improved as the season went along. We revamped the footwork a little bit last spring, and I think the comfort level grew from that.”

— Ben Johnson, Bears Offensive Coordinator (SI.com)

“I would say the one thing that stands out that I was happy to see come back was his pocket presence, his ability to escape. I think that is a rare trait that he has. You saw that come alive.”

— Ryan Poles, Bears General Manager (SI.com)

What’s next

The Bears will look to continue building around Caleb Williams and help him further develop his skills in the team's offense. With the addition of new offensive weapons and continued growth from Williams, the team is optimistic about their chances of making a deeper playoff run in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Caleb Williams' progression in his second season with the Bears is a positive sign for the team's future. Despite some minor setbacks, the organization remains committed to Williams and believes he has the potential to become a top quarterback in the league. The Bears' ability to continue developing Williams and surround him with the right pieces will be crucial as they look to build on their 12-7 season and compete for a championship.