When talking about one of the most balanced and competitive divisions in the NFL last season, the NFC North can’t be overlooked. That’s why Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears will need to maximize their potential if they hope to break into the playoff picture and establish themselves as true contenders.
One of the league’s most promising young quarterbacks will be working under new head coach Ben Johnson, who’s coming off a highly successful stint as offensive coordinator with the Lions last season. If this duo clicks the way many expect, they could make headlines as early as Week 1.
During a recent media session as early activity ramps up at Bears training camp, the former USC Trojans star revealed his main goal for the upcoming season — one that, if achieved, could greatly benefit his team.
“Being the first 4,000-yard passer in Bears history, that’s a goal of mine,” Williams said Tuesday, via the team’s official website. “Seventy-percent completion, that helps the team, keeps us on the field, puts us in better positions. And then other than that, just trying to go down and score the most points that we can with each drive that we have.
Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears talks with head coach Ben Johnson during Chicago Bears OTA Offseason Workout at Halas Hall on June 04, 2025 in Lake Forest, Illinois.
“That’s kind of my self-goal, and obviously other than that, you’ve got to go win. That’s success for me. That’s success for the team. That’s all we wish for and I wish for.”
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Johnson’s trust in Williams could be key to Bears’ success
The arrival of Ben Johnson as the new head coach of the Bears brings a breath of fresh air — and a sharp offensive mind to the team. There’s no doubt that both Johnson and the rest of the coaching staff believe they can help Caleb Williams unlock his full potential.
“We certainly have goals that we strive for,” Johnson said. “It’s not a secret. I told him I would love for him this season to complete 70 percent of his balls. So you would like to think over the course of practice that we’re completing 70 percent or more, or that’s hard to just magically arise in a game. It’s a lofty goal, but it’s one we’re going to strive for. We’re going to use that as a benchmark and kind of work from there.”
Johnson also added: “I think we’re ready to go. The governor is off. He and I have been talking all spring, all summer, constant phone calls, constant conversations. I think we’re in a great place and he wants to get coached hard — and we’re going to push him as hard as we can and do what is right for the team.”
Early challenges ahead for the Bears
To become legitimate contenders, it’s crucial for the Bears to start the NFL season on the right foot. Here are the first matchups they’ll need to navigate in pursuit of that goal:
- vs Minnesota Vikings, September 8th
- @ Detroit Lions, September 14th – Ford Field
- vs Dallas Cowboys, September 21st
- @ Las Vegas Raiders, September 28th – Allegiant Stadium
- Bye Week
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