The partnership between Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams transformed the franchise during the 2025 season. Johnson joined the team in January 2025 and immediately focused on a tailored offensive system for the young quarterback.
In Johnson’s first season at the helm, Williams thrived under his direction. The 24-year-old quarterback set a franchise record with 3,942 passing yards. He also finished the 2025 season with 27 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. This performance earned Williams the title of Bears’ Offensive Player of the Year.
Johnson also helped Williams improve his efficiency, as his sack rate dropped from 68 in 2024 to just 24 last season. Thanks to their collaboration, the Bears finished 11–6 and won the NFC North last season. They also earned their first playoff win since 2011.
Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams shows the lighter side of his bond with Ben Johnson
Each game and practice brought Johnson and Williams closer together. Their bond went beyond the field, with fans catching glimpses of their playful camaraderie on social media.
On Monday, Williams shared a candid photo of Johnson on his Instagram story. It showed the coach sitting on a white chair. He jokingly captioned the image “Say cheese” alongside two laughing emojis.
Caleb Williams latest Instagram story pic.twitter.com/fBqcIaG4ON
— Dave (@davebftv) March 30, 2026
After arriving from the Detroit Lions, Johnson set the tone immediately. He pushed the Bears’ players through a grueling training camp and transformed the team’s culture. Williams and his teammates responded by embracing his intensity and trusting his system.
Williams has praised Johnson’s coaching, saying it has had an unparalleled impact on his development. He added that he looks forward to many more successful games and moments with Johnson.
“He’s been a catalyst for us,” Williams said in an interview. “I’m happy to have him as my coach. What he’s been able to do for me has been unparalleled … I’m excited about our future. I’m excited to get back here with him, grow more than I did this year, and have games and moments like this many times in our career.”
The Bears’ offense saw a dramatic turnaround under Johnson following one of the franchise’s worst seasons in 2024. The offense soared from 32nd in total yards in 2024 (283.5 yards) to sixth in 2025 (369.5 yards). This marked the first time an NFL team made such a leap in a single season since the New York Jets in 1971.
Chicago also scored 441 points during the 2025 season, the third-highest total in franchise history. The team also had 127 explosive plays, the second-most in the NFL.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, the Bears remain focused on elevating the offense to even greater heights. With Johnson and Williams returning, Chicago has a chance to build on one of their most promising campaigns in recent franchise history.
This NFL draftee labeled as a draft fit for the Chicago Bears
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