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NFL: Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers Dec 8, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) throws a pass against the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Ben Johnson’s immediate reaction to scathing Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears report

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated May 16, 2025 7:00 PM ET

Heading into the 2025 season, quarterback Caleb Williams is locked in with the Chicago Bears and poised for a breakout season. However, Williams originally wanted nothing to do with the Bears.

In a new book from ESPN’s Seth Wickersham, it is revealed that Williams requested the Bears trade their No. 1 overall pick to the Minnesota Vikings. Furthermore, the quarterback considered joining the UFL and “nuking” the city of Chicago verbally all to avoid joining the Bears. The franchise denied his trade request and Williams eventually bought in. Still the report brewed a dark cloud over Chicago’s organization.

New head coach Ben Johnson is trying to bring a much brighter future to the Bears. After seeing the report, Johnson empathized with Williams’ message and sent one of his own about committing to Chicago’s success, via The Herd with Colin Cowherd.

“I see this as, what a great opportunity we have to do something that’s really never been done. There hasn’t been a 4,000 yard passer here. I think Caleb is going to be the first one. One of many seasons to come where he is able to accomplish that feat. I see a chance for greatness here.”

“He has been communicated to that way, and he feels the same way,” Johnson continued. “I don’t know what’s gone on prior to him joining the organization, but he is very proud to be a Chicago Bear. That’s what our conversations have included, and he’s really excited to get to work and be the best version of himself for 2025.”

“When the hiccups occur, when the adversity strikes, how do we respond to it?” Johnson asked. “That’s when you find out who you are as a man.”

Colin Cowherd referenced this during his interview with Ben Johnson today discussing Caleb Williams. https://t.co/KqvHJft7x6 pic.twitter.com/gAhro0KqYd

— Matt Clapp (@DaBearNecess) May 15, 2025

Chicago Bears build around Caleb Williams

Williams’ mindset before joining the Bears surely raised eyebrows. However, the franchise wasn’t in the best of positions entering the 2024 campaign. Ultimately, Williams’ concerns were proven true with both head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator fired midseason. Eberflus became the first head coach fired in the middle of the year in Bears history.

Furthermore, Chicago had struggled to develop their previous two first-round quarterbacks in Justin Fields and Mitch Trubisky. While both showed flashes at times, neither became the franchise star as expected. Williams was worried he’d be the next to join the list.

However, with Williams deciding to buy-in, the Bears have built their roster around him entering 2025. Starting with Johnson, the new head coach gives the quarterback a true foundation to standout. It was difficult for the rookie to find his footing with so many coaching chances. Now, Williams has a leader and mentor he can turn to whenever adversity strikes.

Furthermore, the Bears bolstered the offensive line in front of their quarterback, trading for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson while signing center Drew Dalman. After allowing a league-high 68 sacks in 2024, Chicago wanted to ensure Williams stays upright in the pocket.

When he looks downfield to pass, there will be a litany of options to throw to. Draft picks Colston Loveland and Luther Burden join DJ Moore, Rome Odunze and Cole Kmet in what at least on paper is one of the more dynamic offenses in the league. If Johnson’s explosive brand of offense translates to the Bears, you can eliminate “on paper,” from the previous sentence.

The Williams report has stirred up Bears fans and led to a bit of drama. But if the Johnson’s arrival is as beneficial as Chicago expects it to be, the quarterback will have no problems playing in the Windy City for the forseeable future.