Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams significantly altered public perception following his second NFL season by setting a new franchise record with 3,942 passing yards and orchestrating seven fourth-quarter comebacks. His most recent game-winning drive came against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card matchup at Soldier Field, where the Bears secured a 31-27 victory.
Williams’ growth has been closely tied to the impact of first-year head coach Ben Johnson and his staff. After a difficult rookie year marked by 68 sacks allowed and just five victories including a 10-game losing streak, Williams’ development under Johnson’s leadership was evident. With improvements on both the offensive line and defense, including key defensive additions like Nahshon Wright, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and DeMarco Jackson, the Bears improved dramatically to an 11-win season and clinched the NFC North title.
Expert Opinions Shift as Williams Excels in His Second Year
Matt Hasselbeck, a former NFL quarterback, appeared on the “Fitz & Whit” podcast alongside Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth to discuss Williams’ progression and the Bears’ resurgence.
“Caleb Williams, who I was kind of a hater on in year one, I was like, this dude doesn’t get it,” Hasselbeck said. “He doesn’t have the stuff that matters. Year two, I think he does. Ben Johnson and him, they’re on a great trajectory for his career and for that team. So, I think Ben Johnson is incredible. I think he is a great quarterback developer, coach, play caller, all of that stuff.”
Hasselbeck’s initial skepticism was shared by other analysts, but Williams’ performance in his sophomore season has challenged many early critics. Although he still faces challenges with accuracy and completion percentage, experts anticipate further improvement as he continues in Johnson’s system. The Bears’ rise under Williams positions them for more high-profile games and greater national attention moving forward.
Bears Poised for Greater National Spotlight After 2025 Success
Following their strong showing in the 2025 season, the Bears are expected to receive increased recognition across the league, including multiple appearances in primetime matchups. Maintaining this momentum will be essential for the team to validate the growing excitement surrounding Caleb Williams and the Bears’ overall rebuilding effort. Should they meet these expectations, many observers may further revise their opinions on both the quarterback and the franchise’s trajectory.
Cool listen here about Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson.
Matt Hasselbeck: “I was a hater in year one I thought this guy doesn’t get it doesn’t have the stuff that matters. In year two I think he does.”
Great insight from Andrew Whitworth also. #DaBears #Bears #ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/vfyhlXnvEa
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) February 10, 2026
