Ben Johnson & Bears QB: New Era Excitement
- — Chicago Bears' new coach Ben Johnson views the team's past quarterback growth struggles as a chance to forge a new path with Caleb Williams, the No.
- Johnson addressed reports from Seth Wickersham's book, "American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback," which detailed Williams' and his father's reservations about the Bears.
- "I love it," Johnson said Wednesday, regarding the quarterback concerns.
Ben Johnson, the new Bears’ coach, is seizing the opportunity to reshape the team’s quarterback legacy wiht Caleb Williams, aiming to rewrite a narrative where QBs have struggled. Johnson, focused on building trust with Williams, directly addresses the concerns raised in Seth Wickersham’s book, “American Kings,” which revealed Williams’ initial reluctance to join Chicago. Johnson is embracing the chance to change perceptions and build a solid foundation for the future. Reports indicated Williams’ desire for better coaching, a need Johnson aims to fulfill. News Directory 3 is following a story like this. The former Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator is prioritizing developing a strong rapport with Williams. Discover what’s next for the Bears’ quarterback situation.
Bears’ Johnson Aims to Rewrite QB Narrative with Caleb williams
Updated May 21, 2025
LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Chicago Bears’ new coach Ben Johnson views the team’s past quarterback growth struggles as a chance to forge a new path with Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick.
Johnson addressed reports from Seth Wickersham’s book, “American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback,” which detailed Williams’ and his father’s reservations about the Bears. The book revealed Williams initially preferred being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, and his father worried Chicago was a place “where quarterbacks go to die.”
“I love it,” Johnson said Wednesday, regarding the quarterback concerns. “I love the opportunity to come on in and change that narrative… We’re looking to write a new chapter here.”
Johnson said he spoke with williams after the book excerpts surfaced and is focused on moving forward.”He’s his own man,” Johnson stated, emphasizing a fresh start for both of them.
The book also highlighted a disconnect between Williams and former offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, who was fired in November. Williams reportedly reviewed film alone, lacking coaching guidance. He had publicly requested more accountability and harder coaching from the staff.
Williams was not available for comment following the book’s release.
Johnson, formerly the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, joined the Bears in January after their 5-12 season. He described his initial months working with Williams as “outstanding,” emphasizing the importance of building trust.
“It starts with developing a rapport and a trust, and that’s earned over time,” Johnson said. “The more time we spend together, he understands I have his best interests at heart and vice versa… We’re very much aligned in terms of what we want to get done.”
What’s next
Johnson will continue working with williams throughout the offseason to build a strong foundation for the upcoming season,focusing on improving the Bears’ quarterback development and overall team performance.