Sep 21, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson talks with quarterback Caleb Williams (18) against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Chicago Bears HC explains turbulent relationship with Caleb Williams

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Dec 26, 2025 4:00 PM ET

Earlier this spring, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams wasn’t sure if his new head coach liked him.

On Wednesday, Williams said the tense relationship between he and Ben Johnson continued into training camp when the first-year head coach was yelling at him during practices.

“Felt like our relationship was pretty fragile at certain points,” Williams said, via Fox 32. “From my perspective, it was like, ‘geez, this dude doesn’t seem like he likes me.’”

On Friday, Johnson explained that’s a part of his demeanor.

“I would say a lot of my closest friends would probably tell you the same thing,” Johnson said via CHGO Bears. “I think of a guy that was in my wedding, one of my best men was Drew Petzing, the coordinator for Arizona.

“I think he would tell you the first two months that we were together at Boston College, we didn’t say a whole lot to each other. That’s just kind of how it is sometimes. I treat Caleb like I do the rest of the guys. I love all these guys. Comes from a good place, I just want them to become the best player they can be and grow as men as well.”

On Tuesday, Caleb Williams said his relationship early on with coach Ben Johnson was "fra-gee-lay" and that he wasn't sure if Johnson liked him.

Today, Johnson said: "I would say a lot of my closest friends would probably tell you the same thing. I think of a guy that was in my…

— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) December 26, 2025

The Chicago Bears have the best coach in the league

Williams relationship with Johnson has grown stronger during the regular season. He’s figured out Johnson just cares deeply about winning. Williams now thinks the Bears have the best coach in the league.

Earlier this week, Johnson suggested Williams’ competitive drive helped the two eventually bond, even though things weren’t smooth in the spring.

“Every single day, we’re spending one-on-one time, quality time together, to where we can be very transparent with each other,” Johnson said. “And I think what, what I’ve grown to love about him and I hope he would echo the same thing. I think we were mentally very similar. We share a lot of the same competitive drive.”

The trust is growing. Johnson put the ball in Williams’ hands for a 46-yard touchdown pass in overtime to beat the Green Bay Packers 22-16 in Week 16.

The Bears will need the bond for the rest of the regular season and postseason as they push for the NFC’s top seed. Chicago will play the San Francisco 49ers with a chance to win the NFC North on “Sunday Night Football.”

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

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