Can Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams take the next step in his development under new head coach Ben Johnson? That’s the question the USC product is facing heading into Year 2.
In the offseason, the Bears invested in fixing their offensive line after allowing 68 sacks last season. Jonah Jackson, Joe Thuney, and Drew Dalman arrived to provide Williams protection to ensure he has enough time in the pocket and doesn’t have to take unnecessary hits that puts him at risk of an injury.
Moreover, should Williams have the time in the pocket that this new look offensive line can provide him for the entire season, FS1’s Nick Wright believes that the 23-year-old could be the best quarterback in the NFC North by the end of the year.
“By the end of this season, Caleb Williams will be considered by many the best quarterback in this division,” Wright said on Thursday’s edition of “First Things First.” “But I think Jared Goff will suffer somewhat from the absence of Ben Johnson… Early reports from training camp say that transition has been a little rocky.”
🚨 @getnickwright has a prediction to make 🚨
“By the end of this season, Caleb Williams will be, by many, considered the best quarterback in his division.” pic.twitter.com/8APqhnxSVY
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) August 7, 2025
Wright expects Williams to make significant strides in his development, but he doesn’t think it’ll happen right away in Week 1. He believes some patience will be needed as Williams works through the first few weeks before reaching the level Wright expects by the end of the season.
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“I think the first month could be rocky,” Wright added. “I think the first month, there’s going to be some tough shows for me because I think there could be some growing pains early.”
Wright is correct that there will be growing pains for Chicago early in the season as Williams is learning a new offense and an offensive line that’s getting to know him. Nonetheless, if the team continues to improve week by week and make strides needed, then at the end of the season they can be a well-oiled offense, but whether that’s enough to make it to the playoffs remains to be seen.
