Chicago Bears Sign Quarterback Caleb Williams to Long-Term Deal

The young QB led the team to a surprise playoff berth in 2025 under new head coach Ben Johnson.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:19pm

The Chicago Bears have signed quarterback Caleb Williams to a lucrative long-term contract extension, locking up the young signal-caller who helped lead the team to a surprise playoff appearance in 2025 under new head coach Ben Johnson. The deal is seen as a major win for the Bears as they look to build on their momentum and make a deeper postseason run.

Why it matters

Securing Williams to a long-term deal is a critical move for the Bears, who are hoping to build a contending team around the talented young quarterback. After years of inconsistent quarterback play, Williams emerged as a breakout star in 2025 and his continued development is key to the franchise's future success.

The details

The specific terms of Williams' contract extension were not disclosed, but reports indicate it is a multi-year deal that will keep him in Chicago for the foreseeable future. The 24-year-old QB had a breakout 2025 campaign, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns as he led the Bears to a 10-6 record and a wild card playoff berth in his second NFL season.

  • Williams was drafted by the Bears in the 1st round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
  • In the 2025 season, Williams led the Bears to a 10-6 record and a wild card playoff appearance.
  • The Bears and Williams agreed to the contract extension on April 1, 2026.

The players

Caleb Williams

The 24-year-old quarterback was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1st round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He had a breakout 2025 season, leading the team to the playoffs.

Ben Johnson

The head coach of the Chicago Bears, hired prior to the 2025 season. He helped guide the team to a surprise playoff appearance in his first year.

Chicago Bears

The NFL franchise based in Chicago, Illinois that competes in the National Football League.

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What they’re saying

“Caleb is a special talent and a big part of our future. Locking him up long-term was a top priority this offseason.”

— Ryan Poles, General Manager, Chicago Bears

“I'm excited to continue building something special here in Chicago. This is just the start of what I believe we can accomplish.”

— Caleb Williams

What’s next

The Bears will look to build around Williams and the core of their 2025 playoff team as they aim to make a deeper postseason run in 2026.

The takeaway

The Bears' decision to sign Caleb Williams to a long-term deal is a clear sign of their commitment to building a winning franchise around the talented young quarterback. After years of instability at the position, Chicago appears to have found its QB of the future.