Bears Hire Ben Johnson After 5-12 Season Marked by Rookie QB Caleb Williams' Film-Study Challenges

Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears' first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, endured a challenging rookie season marked by a 5-12 record, a 10-game losing streak, and a league-high 68 sacks, despite setting an NFL rookie record for most passes without an interception. His development was hampered by coaching instability, including the midseason firing of head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, as well as a lack of proper guidance in film study, which was highlighted as a significant shortfall by ESPN's Seth Wickersham. The Bears addressed these issues by hiring former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their new head coach, who brings an innovative offensive approach and a more disciplined coaching style, with the hope of better protecting and developing Williams. Key improvements include a much stronger offensive line featuring free agent center Drew Dalman and a return to a more frequent play-action passing game, which suits Williams' strengths and could elevate his performance to franchise-record levels, including potentially becoming the Bears' first 4,000-yard passer. Williams himself acknowledged the learning curve during his rookie year and expressed optimism about the more efficient film study techniques and overall team improvements under Johnson. The Bears and Williams are poised for a critical 2025 season, where his leadership and enhanced offensive support will be vital for turning the team's fortunes around and contending for a playoff spot.