Chicago Bears Coach Ben Johnson Pressures Rookies, Develops QB Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears, under head coach Ben Johnson, are focusing on developing their young core including quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receivers Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, and Colston Loveland as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft, has shown improvement in his pre-snap routine and footwork but continues to struggle with accuracy and timing, especially in red-zone situations where he threw interceptions during recent practices. Johnson has increased the complexity of the offense for Williams, including long play calls and tempo changes, aiming to challenge him and accelerate his growth, while also emphasizing the importance of trust and chemistry among teammates. Burden has missed key practice time due to a soft tissue injury, raising concerns about lost development opportunities during the offseason. Despite some frustrations, Johnson remains confident in Williams’ ability to learn and improve, noting his commitment to extra reps and coaching, although some analysts debate the impact Johnson will have on Williams’ performance. The Bears’ young players are expected to be central to the team’s efforts to compete in the NFC North, with training camp set to begin in late July after a summer break.