The Chicago Bears have shifted gears dramatically, moving from a rebuilding phase in 2025 to aggressively pursuing a Super Bowl-caliber team in the 2026 offseason. Central to this effort is quarterback Caleb Williams, who stood out late last season by orchestrating seven game-winning drives, a key factor in the Bears’ improved performance. However, concerns over Williams’s accuracy, which declined from 62% in 2024 to 58% in 2025, remain a significant focus for the organization.
General manager Ryan Poles addressed these issues during the NFL Combine, emphasizing that Williams is aware of the need to elevate his game and align with the vision laid out by head coach Ben Johnson.
“(Caleb Williams) knows he’s got work to do, Ben (Johnson) has been very clear with a vision and I know he’s going to put in the time to get to that,”
Poles said via The Score’s Chris Emma.
“But that needs to get to that point. But if all of that falls into place, I think we strategically have to understand how does that change our formula as we move forward and make decisions for the future. For the organization, that’s a great thing to be on that path and feel like you have a long-term quarterback solution.”
Assessing Caleb Williams’s Performance and the Bears’ Future Prospects
Despite accuracy concerns, Williams delivered a strong 2025 season, setting a franchise record with 3,942 passing yards, throwing 27 touchdowns against six interceptions, and adding three rushing scores. His ability to rally the team in crucial moments reflects growing confidence and leadership under pressure. Yet, his accuracy inconsistencies sparked discussions, which head coach Ben Johnson attributed to the rookie adapting to the complexities of the Bears’ offense while taking on increased responsibility.
Williams and Johnson have laid important groundwork for the Bears’ progression, as the team posted an 11-6 record and advanced to the NFC Divisional Round in the playoffs. This turnaround contrasts sharply with the previous year’s struggles, offering renewed optimism among Chicago’s fanbase under Williams’s leadership.
Outlook on What Lies Ahead for the Bears and Caleb Williams’s Development
Ryan Poles’s remarks underscore the cautious yet hopeful approach within the Bears organization as they aim to capitalize on Williams’s potential. The quarterback’s growth will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s strategy moving forward, particularly regarding roster decisions and long-term planning. If Williams continues to progress and embraces the vision set by the coaching staff, the Bears could solidify their status as serious contenders in coming seasons, making the offseason a critical period for improvement and adjustment.
Ryan Poles: "(Caleb Williams) knows he’s got work to do, Ben (Johnson) has been very clear with a vision and I know he’s going to put in the time to get to that. But that needs to get to that point. But if all of that falls into place, I think we strategically have to understand…
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) February 24, 2026
