Bears QB Caleb Williams expected to do something he's never done before in 2026

The Chicago Bears drafted quarterback Caleb Williams in the 2024 NFL Draft, but he didn't start to really bloom until head coach Ben Johnson came on the scene one year later. 

After his rookie year, there were a ton of Williams critics out there. He ended his rookie year having appeared in 17 games and passing for 3,541 yards and 20 touchdowns, so it wasn't a bad showing, but it also wasn't groundbreaking.

But groundbreaking is a good way to describe Williams now. In the 2025 season, he led the Bears to the playoffs, passing for 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns and a 90.1 passer rating, according to ESPN research. The Bears ended the season No. 1 in the NFC North.

Williams is on fire, and that means he's poised to do something he's never done before. Williams is being projected to make the NFL's Top 100 players list when it's released on Monday, June 22.

Bears QB Caleb Williams could do something special before September

Bucky Brooks of the NFL's official website named Williams the No. 4 most likely player to debut on the NFL's Top 100 players' tally this summer. He thinks Williams will debut in the top 50.

"The “Iceman” has helped the Bears emerge as a title contender with his spectacular playmaking feats inside and outside the pocket," Brooks stated. "The 'Madden NFL 27' cover star has not only captivated the football world with improvisational skills, but his ability to come through in the clutch has given him a superhero aura in the Windy City."

It's about time the Bears get some respect, and thanks to Johnson and Williams, it's coming. Now, we wait to see what number Williams lands at when that list comes out on Monday.