Bears’ Ben Johnson turns to Aaron Rodgers for Caleb Williams growth

As Chicago Bears head coach, one of the Ben Johnson’s biggest priorities is helping quarterback Caleb Williams reach his No. 1 pick ceiling. He doesn’t mind turning to a bitter rival for extra help.

Throughout the offseason, Johnson has used Green Bay Packers highlights throughout the offseason to help develop Williams and the offense. He wanted them to see how quarterback Aaron Rodgers operated. From pre-snap to the play itself, Johnson saw a vision of what the Bears could look like, via Dan Wiederer of the Athletic.

“They were very defined with what they were doing,” Johnson says. “You could tell they coached it. You could tell Aaron really believed this was a big play waiting to happen — whether it’s a throw down the field or whether it’s a chance for (defensive pass interference). And all their guys reacted that way.”

Ultimately, it will be a collective mission by the offense. For all of Williams’ talent, he can’t do everything on his own. All 11 players must be united on the same goal every single play. If so, Johnson will see the explosion he is game planning more.

“These are great opportunities for big plays,” Johnson says, “particularly with the style of quarterback Caleb is. We’ve got to use that.”

Bears want to make most of Caleb Williams’ big plays

When Williams’ career highlight tape is made, plenty of plays from the 2025 season will be on it. The Bears obviously aren’t looking to eliminate those moments. But they are trying to be smart with them.

Johnson stated that when Williams left the pocket and threw downfield, the Bears succeeded 40 percent of the time. To take those big shots, and knowing Williams is capable of connecting on them, the offense has been working diligently to ensure Chicago is more successful.

“He’s too good of a thrower on the run,” Johnson says. “Our guys are too good at separating for that not to be at a higher clip for us. There are big plays there to be had. … I think that’s something Caleb can really sink into. I think we can make a huge jump.”

The Bears are looking to take the NFL by storm with their offense in 2026. If those plans work, Williams will have taken another step forward. But hype is one thing, results are another. Chicago must walk the walk to be considered true contenders.

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