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PFF Tabs Chicago Bears Player as 2025’s Top Breakout Candidate

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 8:57 AM ET

Pro Football Focus, widely known as PFF, has become one of the most respected data-driven voices in football. Through advanced analytics, film study, and grading systems, the company evaluates every player on every snap of every game. From fantasy football and college scouting to in-depth team analysis, PFF provides NFL teams, media outlets, and fans with unmatched insight. This week, PFF has signaled that a Chicago Bears player is positioned to make the biggest jump of any offensive talent in 2025.

Thomas Valentine of PFF released his latest projection for most improved players at each offensive position, posting on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: ‘The offensive players who will take the biggest step forward in 2025.’ At the very top of the list? None other than Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Valentine believes Williams is poised for a breakout campaign, followed by:

Running back Jalen Wright
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
Tight end Theo Johnson
Offensive tackle Olu Fashanu
Guard Peter Skoronski
Center Jackson Powers-Johnson.

The offensive players who will take the biggest step forward in 2025 pic.twitter.com/M8bR2BoU3v
— PFF (@PFF) May 31, 2025

Under the direction of new head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears are building a strong foundation to accelerate Williams’ development. With DJ Moore and Rome Odunze returning to the lineup, along with tight end Cole Kmet, there’s plenty of continuity. Add in draft picks like wide receiver Luther Burden III, tight end Colston Loveland, and offensive lineman Ozzy Tribino, and Chicago is quietly assembling one of the NFL’s most intriguing young cores.

PFF’s models are rooted in performance data—not hype. Their projections carry weight among scouts and coaches because they focus on measurable growth and situation context. With a new system in place and the tools around him, Williams' potential leap could redefine Chicago’s offense and reset expectations for second-year quarterback.

Still, projections are one thing—execution is another. Time will tell if the promise translates into production on the field.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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