The Chicago Bears enter the 2025 season in search of their first postseason win since 2010.
One reason for optimism is quarterback Caleb Williams, who heads into his sophomore campaign after an up-and-down rookie year in 2024 that culminated in a 5-12 record.
Despite his lack of experience in the league and the challenges he faces as the signal-caller for an organization that has struggled at the QB position, his teammates remain confident in his abilities.
ESPN senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler was on Thursday's edition of "Get Up" and said Bears wideout Rome Odunze discussed Williams with him recently.
"Rome Odunze told me Caleb Williams can literally be the best quarterback in the NFL," Fowler said. He's far from that right now. ... (Head coach) Ben Johnson has been relentless on him with the details. They're just trying to get him to do the basics right now and then they'll work on the off-scripted plays, the mobility, all his strengths. That will come. Now, Chicago Bears, elite quarterback play is an oxymoron. It's always been that way. But as far as the ability, they see it, the players recognize it, they just gotta get it out of him."
"Rome Odunze told me Caleb Williams can literally be the best quarterback in the NFL."
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) August 7, 2025
—@JFowlerESPN pic.twitter.com/sRPIRyWPhR
Williams accounted for a respectable 20 touchdowns in 2024 despite getting sacked a league-high 68 times, per StatMuse.
His skill has never been in question. Going back to his collegiate days at Oklahoma and USC, Williams threw 93 TDs and only 14 interceptions, showing his ability to get the ball down the field while not committing many turnovers.
That type of upside is why the 2025 season is viewed as a crucial one for Williams to prove himself and show that he can get the Bears back in contention and relevant in a positive light.
While a video surfaced earlier this week of Williams' emotional reaction to some poor throws during an individual drill, general manager Ryan Poles did not seem fazed by the situation.
With Johnson, the former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, now leading the charge in Chicago, Williams has one of the best offensive minds in football on the sidelines. Having someone who spearheaded the league's highest-scoring offense in 2024 (33.1 PPG) and some stability after the in-season firings of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus last season should put Williams in a favorable spot to succeed.
There is still not much to go off of after just one season in the NFL, but Williams has certainly earned high praise from his teammates. With an offensive mastermind and a lot of talent surrounding him, the 2025 season is a prime opportunity for Williams as he looks to take the next step.
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