Bears QB Caleb Williams Faces NFL Criticism Entering 2025 Season

Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears' quarterback and 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick, showed promise during his rookie season but also raised concerns about his processing ability and tendency to hold the ball too long, leading to a league-high 68 sacks. Several NFL coaches and coordinators voiced worries about his nervousness in the pocket and decision-making under pressure, though some remain optimistic that his natural talent and improvisational skills will help him improve with experience. Williams completed 62.5% of his passes for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and six interceptions during his rookie year, demonstrating potential but also inconsistency. The Bears hired Ben Johnson, former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator known for his offensive acumen, as their new head coach, offering hope that Williams will benefit from a stronger offensive system and better protection. The 2025 season is a critical one for Williams to prove he can be the franchise quarterback, especially given the pressure and expectations surrounding him and the franchise. His father, Carl Williams, was notably protective and vocal about concerns over Caleb playing for the Bears, reflecting broader apprehensions about the team's quarterback situation.