NFL Insider's Urgent Message About Chicago Bears' Caleb Williams, Ben Johnson

NFL Insider Breaks Down Chicago Coach Ben Johnson's Decision To Hold Out Caleb Williams

Johnson ruled Williams out for the Bears' first preseason game. While Bears fans wait to hear if Williams will get any live game reps in Chicago's second preseason game vs. the Buffalo Bills, NFL insider Kyle Brandt urged fans to trust Johnson.

"Trust Ben Johnson and what he's doing," Brandy said on Good Morning Football. "For years, maybe even decades there has been whining about, 'we need to get this coach and we've got to get this coach. Ben Johnson was the kind of coach the Bears were just never going to get. It was a surprise. It was a lightning bolt when they got him."

"So you got the guy you want... 'Why isn't he playing Caleb in the preseason?' Shut your mouth. Be quiet. Be patient. This is the mad genius that you wanted. You got him. Now let him do his mad genius thing," Brandy continued. "And if that includes keeping Caleb on the sideline, fine. He knows more than us about Caleb and the offense."

Playing starting quarterbacks in NFL preseason games is a hot button topic for many, considering the risk vs. reward of getting extra reps but risking injury.

Johnson's mode of operation as Detroit Lion offensive coordinator was to not play starting quarterback Jared Goff, so this really is not a shock. For three-straight seasons, Johnson led Goff to a top-five offense every year.

The Lions also ranked No. 1 in points per game (33), No. 2 in yards per game (409) and No. 3 in yards per play (6.8)... So Brandt's point about trusting Johnson is valid.

Williams' NFL Training Camp Under Johnson

Williams has gotten meaningful training camp reps, that included a joint practice with the Miami Dolphins. Ahead of Chicago's game against the Bills, the two teams will have a joint practice as well.

Johnson has praised Williams' mental preparation as he learns the new system. Reports from practice have been good and bad, which is to be expected as the duo find their footing.

USC Trojans fans are hopeful that Williams will blossom with Johnson's brilliant offensive mind. Last season, the Bears finished 5-12 in Williams' rookie season. Williams finished with exciting stats of 3,541 yards, with 20 touchdowns and six interceptions.

After being the No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in 2024, Williams had to adjust to multiple in-season changes to Bears' coaching staff and being sacked a league-high 68 times.

...Not exactly a recipe for success.

In 2025, Williams' future looks much brighter.

Chicago Bears' NFL Preseason Schedule

Chicago has two more preseason games on the schedule.

• Sunday, Aug. 17: Chicago vs. Buffalo Bills, 5 p.m. PT
• Friday, August 22: Chicago at Kansas City Chiefs, 5:20 p.m. PT

Chicago's 2025 regular season begins on Monday, Sept. 8, vs. Minnesota Vikings at 5:15 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.