An NFL analyst has suggested that Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has the potential to surpass Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow as the premier quarterback in the league. After a notably improved 2025 season, Williams is gaining attention as a possible future top quarterback given his unique talents and growth opportunities.
The Chicago Bears transformed their performance in the 2025 season, achieving 11 wins compared to just five in 2024, and moving from last place to first in the NFC North division. A significant factor in this turnaround was the hiring of new head coach Ben Johnson, formerly of the Detroit Lions, who helped enhance the Bears’ offense and foster Williams’ progress from his rookie year to his second season.
Areas for Growth Alongside Promising Attributes
Despite his upward trajectory, Williams still displayed some weaknesses during 2025. His completion rate stood at 58.1%, which lagged behind the league average, and occasional inaccuracies impacted several games for the Bears. Nevertheless, his exceptional arm strength and playmaking capabilities stand out as natural gifts that cannot be coached, making him a special talent in the quarterback position.
Expert Commentary Highlights Williams’ Potential
NFL analyst Colin Cowherd provided a detailed assessment of Williams on his program The Herd, emphasizing why he might soon be regarded as the NFL’s best quarterback. Cowherd noted Williams’ tremendous upside despite his relatively short time in the league and highlighted key statistics backing this viewpoint.
“We are getting into a discussion, if you count everything, that Caleb Williams may very quickly be the best quarterback. You’ve got to count everything with a quarterback, including the cost,”
Cowherd stated.
I looked up the stats this morning. Only one quarterback in the league had more big-time throws — 20-plus throws — than Caleb Williams. It wasn’t Josh Allen, (Patrick) Mahomes, and it wasn’t Lamar Jackson. Caleb Williams has the lowest interception rate since he entered the league, better than Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen. He is now officially the fastest quarterback on clock — better than Lamar, faster than Josh Allen. And oh, by the way, he also had the longest completion in the league last year.
— Colin Cowherd, NFL analyst
I don’t care about resume. I’m not into past celebrations or past failures. I’m into projecting 2026 Labor Day Weekend. Is Caleb the best quarterback in the league?
— Colin Cowherd, NFL analyst
Value of Williams’ Contract Adds to His Appeal
Cowherd’s evaluation extends beyond Williams’ on-field performance. He also emphasizes the quarterback’s current contract situation as an advantage. Williams remains on his rookie deal, meaning his salary cap hit is comparatively low, allowing the Bears flexibility to invest in strengthening other parts of their roster.
According to Spotrac, Williams’ salary cap hit for the 2026 season will be roughly 3.5%, amounting to just over $10 million. This cost-effectiveness is notable compared to other franchise quarterbacks who command larger portions of their teams’ payrolls.
However, indicators like the PFSN QB Impact Score paint a more cautious picture. Last season, Williams scored 76.1, which placed him 20th in the league, revealing there is still work to be done to reach elite quarterback status.
Bears Positioned for a Championship Contention Era
Should Williams’ development continue as projected by Cowherd, the Bears appear to be entering a prime period for a Super Bowl run. The team’s current roster represents perhaps the most talented unit they have assembled in recent years. Once Williams secures a long-term contract extension, the Bears’ financial flexibility could tighten, making this current window particularly significant.
A recent parallel exists in the New England Patriots, who reached the Super Bowl with rookie quarterback Drake Maye still on his initial contract despite playing in a highly competitive division and conference. The Bears could potentially follow a similar path if Williams evolves as expected.
"I don't care about resume. I'm not into past celebrations or past failures. I'm into projecting 2026 Labor Day Weekend. Is Caleb the best quarterback in the league?"@colincowherd thinks Caleb Williams could soon be the best QB in the NFL pic.twitter.com/sw4gyjXZ9F
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) February 18, 2026
