Caleb Williams Praises Bears' 'Mad Scientist' Coach Ben Johnson

The Bears QB opens up about his evolving relationship with head coach Ben Johnson on The Rush with Maxx Crosby podcast.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 7:39am

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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams spoke candidly about his relationship with head coach Ben Johnson, describing him as a "unique cat" and a "mad scientist" whose communication style took some time for Williams to understand. However, Williams emphasized that their partnership has grown stronger over time, with Williams appreciating Johnson's competitive edge and the success they achieved together in Williams' second NFL season.

Why it matters

The Bears' turnaround in 2025 was largely driven by the partnership between Williams and Johnson, with the team winning the NFC North and making the playoffs. Their continued growth and chemistry will be crucial as the Bears look to build on that success and become a consistent contender in the NFC.

The details

Williams explained that Johnson's unique communication style, where he would often make jokes that Williams initially thought were serious, took some time to get used to. However, through daily interactions and meetings, Williams was able to better understand Johnson's personality and sense of humor. Williams also praised Johnson's competitive nature, saying "He's like us. He wants to whoop everybody's ass." In his first season as Bears head coach in 2025, Johnson led the team to an 11-6 record and an NFC North title, with the offense ranking 10th in PFSN's OFFi Metric.

  • In 2024, Williams had a 5-12 rookie season with the Bears.
  • In 2025, Williams improved, finishing with 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.
  • The Bears made the playoffs in 2025 under Johnson's leadership in his first season as head coach.

The players

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' starting quarterback who is praising his relationship with head coach Ben Johnson.

Ben Johnson

The Chicago Bears' head coach, described by Williams as a "mad scientist" with a unique communication style.

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What they’re saying

“He's a unique cat. Love him to death. He's like a mad scientist that doesn't speak like what he's thinking. So you're sitting there from my position trying to figure him out.”

— Caleb Williams, Bears Quarterback

“He's like us. He wants to whoop everybody's ass. He's like a player in a sense. He wants to beat every coach, every defense. For me, I love it because I feel the same way.”

— Caleb Williams, Bears Quarterback

What’s next

The Bears will look to build on their successful 2025 season and continue the growth of the Williams-Johnson partnership as they aim to become a consistent contender in the NFC.

The takeaway

The evolving relationship between Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson has been crucial to the team's recent turnaround, with Williams praising Johnson's unique personality and competitive drive. Their continued collaboration will be key as the Bears seek to maintain their status as an NFC contender.