Bears’ Ben Johnson sees Caleb Williams’ chip on shoulder

Imagn Images

Bears’ Ben Johnson sees Caleb Williams’ chip on shoulder

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Sep 18, 2026 11:08 AM ET

Being selected No. 1 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, expectations were always going to be high for Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. After a 5-12 rookie season, the backlash piled on quickly.

Williams was able to rehab his image in a massive way by leading the Bears to the Divisional Round in 2025. However, fans and pundits alike are still expecting the quarterback to fully send.

Williams has heard the noise, all of it from good to bad. While he is trying to stay composed in big moments, any flack he receives has been used as fuel. The quarterback knows what he needs to do to improve. And he plans on proving all the doubters wrong.

Head coach Ben Johnson has seen Williams’ mentality shift as he chases greatness. He’s eager to continue helping the quarterback reach new heights.

Bears’ Caleb Williams has chip on shoulder

Dec 26, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) rolls out of the pocket during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images

One of the biggest red flags towards Johnson entering 2026 was his completion percentage. He hit at just a 58.1 percent clip in 2025. However, he started off the season on the right tack, completing 72.4 percent of his passes against the Carolina Panthers in Week 1.

Johnson knows Williams is committed to improving in all aspects. He sees how badly the quarterback wants to succeed, via Kevin Fishbain of the Athletic.

“He’s always got the chip on the shoulder. He’s one of those guys,” Johnson said. “‘OK, they’re saying I can’t do this. OK, I’m out to prove them wrong.’

“And it’s not so much the coaching staff, but he hears everything out there. You know, ’58 percent completion,’ and ‘he’ll never be able to play on schedule.’ He takes it personal, and he wants to show that he can do it all. That’s the type of kid he is.”

The Bears have put all their eggs in Williams’ basket. Their quarterback was a key reason Johnson took the head coaching job in the first place. Chicago believes in what they have under center and are ready to see how much further he can grow.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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