Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson Signal Chicago’s Fresh Start

The Chicago Bears enter the 2025 NFL season with something they haven’t had in decades: a true sense of hope for their offense. The hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach and the presence of second-year quarterback Caleb Williams have raised expectations that the franchise could finally improve after years of offensive instability.

Chicago hasn’t had back-to-back winning seasons since 2005-2006, and the team’s offensive struggles on that side of the ball have been a major issue for much of the last two decades. Johnson’s arrival marks a clear effort to change that narrative and give Williams the support he needs to succeed this season and in the future.

A Proven Offensive Mind

Johnson comes to Chicago with a resume that few first-time head coaches can match. In three seasons as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, his teams consistently ranked among the best in the NFL. In 2024, the Lions scored a franchise-record 564 points and had four players with over 1,000 scrimmage yards.

Bears general manager Ryan Poles described Johnson as someone with a clear understanding of offensive strategy whose ability to customize schemes for his players stood out during the hiring process.

For Bears fans, that flexibility offers hope that Chicago’s offense will no longer use a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they will employ a dynamic, opponent-specific strategy tailored to maximize Williams’ strengths.

Caleb Williams’ Crucial Second Year

The Bears selected Williams first overall in 2024, hoping he would be the franchise quarterback they’ve been searching for. His rookie season was anything but steady, marked by multiple play-callers, inconsistent protection, and a league-high 68 sacks. Despite these challenges, Williams showed composure and throwing ability, setting a franchise record for consecutive passes without an interception.

Johnson quickly challenged his quarterback during the offseason, filling practice sessions with complex play calls, rapid pace changes, and multiple pre-snap reads. The goal was to speed up Williams’ understanding of the offense and prepare him for the different defenses he will face in 2025.

Building the Trenches

One of Johnson’s top priorities was improving the offensive line, which has been a weak spot for Chicago in recent years. The Bears invested through free agency, trades, and the draft to bring in versatile linemen who can protect Williams and establish more consistency in the run game.

Johnson’s success in Detroit exemplifies the impact a strong offensive line can have. In 2023, the Lions allowed the fourth-fewest sacks in the NFL, allowing their offense to fully utilize its play-action and deep passing game. The Bears aim to replicate that strategy by pairing better pass protection with a balanced running attack to keep defenses on their toes.

The message has been clear: the offense will only succeed to the extent that its line can deliver, and Johnson is ensuring that a solid foundation is finally in place.

2025 Season Outlook

The Bears enter the season in a period of change, but with genuine reasons for optimism.

Williams has a stronger group of receivers around him, an upgraded offensive line, and a play-caller with a proven track record of getting the best out of his players. On defense, veteran leadership combined with promising young talent aims to keep Chicago competitive in the NFC North.

Still, the pressure is palpable. Another year of offensive setbacks could dampen enthusiasm around Williams and raise questions about how quickly Johnson’s vision can take effect. However, if the positive trends continue into the regular season, 2025 could mark the year the Bears begin writing a new chapter—one founded on stability, innovation, and lasting offensive success.

For Chicago fans who have waited decades for a franchise quarterback and a capable offense, the combination of Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams brings the most hope yet that their long wait may finally be over.